How to eliminate taeniasis/cysticercosis: porcine vaccination and human chemotherapy (Part 2)

Background The application of effective vaccines against pig cysticercosis and mass chemotherapy against pig cysticercosis and human taeniasis have shown the feasibility of interrupting the parasite’s life cycle in endemic areas. Methods A mathematical model that divides the population into susceptible, infected, and vaccinated individuals is formulated. The model is based upon the life cycle of the parasite. Computer numerical simulation experiments to evaluate the impact of pig vaccination under different vaccination schedules, and combined intervention strategies including pig vaccination and anthelmintic treatment against human taeniasis are carried out. Results Vaccination against either pig cysticercosis or against human taeniasis will influence the transmission dynamics not only among vaccinees but also the dynamics of the other hosts as well. When the protective efficacy and/or the coverage rate is less than 100%, different mass interventions like vaccinating the pig population twice in combination with chemotherapeutic treatment against human taeniasis, the elimination of the infection in both pigs and humans can also be achieved. Conclusions Our mathematical model has the potential for planning, and designing effective intervention strategies including both mass vaccination and/or chemotherapeutic treatment to eliminate pig cysticercosis, human taeniasis and human neurocysticercosis. The model can be adapted to any given community with mild, moderate endemicity, or even in hyperendemic regions.