Modelling immunocontraception in disseminating systems.

Vectored immunocontraception is a novel technology and simple models are described to help predict whether, and how, it might work. That is, given that an effective immunocontraceptive agent can be produced, and given that it can be inserted into a microparasitic or macroparasitic infective vector, would the vector persist and reach a high prevalence in the host and, if so, would it sterilize a sufficient proportion of the host breeding population to significantly reduce its density? Both conditions are necessary for success. The first question is an epidemiological one, relating solely to disseminating systems and differing according to whether the vector itself is newly introduced or pre-existing.

Bovine tuberculosis in New Zealand: epidemiology and models.

Bovine tuberculosis is New Zealand's most serious animal health problem because of its threat as a nontariff trade barrier to livestock export, and because a wildlife reservoir of 70 million brushtail possums seriously constrains its control. Mathematical models have contributed significantly to current control strategies and have highlighted some key questions of wider epidemiological significance.