Journals Information
Universal Journal of Applied Mathematics Vol. 12(3), pp. 63 - 77
DOI: 10.13189/ujam.2024.120301
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Modeling the Effects of Media Coverage on the COVID-19 Transmission Dynamics
Ana Vivas 1, Anne Fernando 2, Evelyn Thomas 1,*
1 Department of Mathematics, Norfolk State University, Norfolk, 23504, Virginia, United States
2 Department of Applied Mathematics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, 22904, Virginia, United States
ABSTRACT
The increasing importance of media's role in the transmission of diseases presents a novel dimension to be considered in disease modeling. In our study, we introduce a comprehensive model based on a system of ordinary differential equations to elucidate the dynamics of COVID-19's spread, with a particular focus on the influence of media. Utilizing established compartmental modeling approaches, our model categorizes individuals into six distinct groups: Asymptomatic, Clinically Ill, Quarantined, Hospitalized, Recovered, and Vaccinated. This classification enables a nuanced analysis of the interactions that significantly impact disease propagation. Furthermore, our model innovatively incorporates parameters specifically designed to evaluate media exposure's effect on disease transmission dynamics. Employing the Next-Generation Method, we derive an explicit formula for the Basic Reproduction Number, a critical metric in epidemiology. Our findings include the conditions necessary for achieving a Disease-Free Equilibrium, highlighting the potential for disease eradication or persistence within a population. Through stability analysis, we identify specific conditions under which COVID-19 can be either eliminated or become endemic, offering insights into effective disease management strategies. Our analysis is enriched with numerical simulations, utilizing data from the Virginia Department of Health among other sources, to validate our model's predictions. This study not only sheds light on the pivotal role of media in disease spread but also provides a foundational framework for predicting and managing the dynamics of COVID-19 transmission.
KEYWORDS
COVID-19, Epidemiology, Asymptomatic Individuals, Media Effects
Cite This Paper in IEEE or APA Citation Styles
(a). IEEE Format:
[1] Ana Vivas , Anne Fernando , Evelyn Thomas , "Modeling the Effects of Media Coverage on the COVID-19 Transmission Dynamics," Universal Journal of Applied Mathematics, Vol. 12, No. 3, pp. 63 - 77, 2024. DOI: 10.13189/ujam.2024.120301.
(b). APA Format:
Ana Vivas , Anne Fernando , Evelyn Thomas (2024). Modeling the Effects of Media Coverage on the COVID-19 Transmission Dynamics. Universal Journal of Applied Mathematics, 12(3), 63 - 77. DOI: 10.13189/ujam.2024.120301.