Modeling the transmission of schistosomiasis: an introductory view.

The transmission of schistosomiasis can be modeled at various levels of complexity in terms of systems of mathematical equations. This paper shows how such models can be set up, and stresses the importance of incorporating the right basic assumptions from the outset. The use of models for evaluating possible control strategies is illustrated in the context of a simple prevalence model of transmission. Some limitations and uncertainties involved in modeling schistosomiasis are also indicated.