A Metapopulation Modelling Framework For Gonorrhoea And Other Sexually Transmitted Infections In Heterosexual Populations

Main Category: Sexual Health / STDs
Also Included In: Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses;  Biology / Biochemistry
Article Date: 05 Nov 2008 - 4:00 PDT

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Mathematical models can be used to give us insights into the transmission of infectious diseases. In this work, we describe a mathematical model for sexually transmitted infections, where modelled individuals are grouped into several subpopulations, which together form a "metapopulation".

We use this model to explain why the risk of getting infected with gonorrhoea in the United Kingdom (and elsewhere) might be dependent, not just on the behaviour of the individual, but on the behaviour of the subpopulation to which this individual belongs.

The study shows that, where sexually transmitted infections are concerned, who your "mates" are really does matter

Journal of the Royal Society Interface

Journal of the Royal Society Interface is the Society's cross-disciplinary publication promoting research at the interface between the physical and life sciences. It offers rapidity, visibility and high-quality peer review and is ranked fifth in JCR's multidisciplinary category. The journal also incorporates Interface Focus, a peer-reviewed, themed supplement, each issue of which concentrates on a specific cross-disciplinary subject.

Journal of the Royal Society Interface