Transmission dynamics of Trichomonas vaginalis: A mathematical approach

Despite the availability of treatment that is effective, Trichomonas vaginalis infections are still high. A deterministic model for transmission dynamics of Trichomonas vaginalis is presented as a system of non-linear differential equations. Analysis of the reproduction number has shown that an increase in the number of straight women (non-lesbians) infected result in an increase in the number of lesbians infected. This suggests that straight women are turning into lesbians already infected. The disease-free equilibrium is shown to be globally asymptotically stable when the corresponding reproduction number is less than unity. Analytical results and numerical simulations both show that treatment is able to control Trichomonas vaginalis infections. This suggests an effective control of trichomoniasis rests in encouraging and persuading sexual partners of those displaying symptoms to seek treatment. Failure for the asymptomatic to seek treatment (mostly males given that the majority of males does not show symptoms) will continue to fuel the infection. © 2011 Elsevier Inc.