Modelling the role of long distance truck drivers on HIV transmission dynamics

The long distance truck drivers have been documented as a vital component in the spreading of HIV. A mathematical model that investigates the role of long distance truck drivers on HIV transmission dynamics was formulated and analysed. The threshold parameter that governs the disease transmission is computed by the next generation operator approach. The model is analysed for the existence of disease free equilibrium and endemic equilibrium points. The results show that, the disease free equilibrium point is asymptotically stable when basic reproduction number R0 is less than unity and unstable when the basic reproduction number is greater than unity. Furthermore, comprehensive analyses on these two steady states (infection free and endemic) have shown that they are both globally and asymptotically stable. Sensitivity analysis is performed on the relative importance of parameters to the basic reproduction number R0 shows that, the long distance truck drivers are increasing the rate of transmission of HIV infection. Additionally, numerical simulation results show that, long distance truck drivers play a role in increasing the rate of transmission of HIV infection.