Modelling the role of multi-transmission routes in the epidemiology of bovine tuberculosis in cattle and buffalo populations

Abstract

A mathematical model that describes the transmission dynamics of bovine tuberculosis (BTB) in both buffalo and cattle populations is proposed. The model incorporates cross-infection and contaminated environment transmission routes. A full analysis of the model is undertaken. The reproduction number of the entire model is comprised of cross-infection and contaminated parameters. This underscores the importance of including both cross-infection and contaminated environment transmission routes. Crucially our simulations suggest that the disease has a more devastating effect on cattle populations than on buffalo populations when all transmission routes are involved. This has important implications for agriculture and tourism.

Keywords: Buffalo; Cattle; Cross-infection; Environment; Mathematical modelling; Mycobacterium bovis.