SPATIOTEMPORAL EPIDEMIC MODELS FOR RABIES AMONG DOG WITH VACCINATION APPROACH

Abstract

This study develops an optimal control strategy for canine rabies transmission using a two-dimensional spatiotemporal model with spatial dynamics. Our objective is to minimize the number of infected and exposed individuals while reducing vaccination costs. We rigorously establish the existence of optimal control and provide a detailed characterization. Numerical simulations show that early intervention, in particular timely vaccinationat the onset of an outbreak, effectively controls the disease. Our model highlights the importance of spatial factors in rabies spread and underlinesthe need for proactive vaccination campaigns, providing valuable insights for public healthpolicy and intervention strategies.