A novel fractional-order modelling the transmission dynamics of Buruli ulcer with treatment

Abstract

Ghana is considered one of the countries with the highest incidence of Buruli ulcer (BU), with a significant contributing factor being an infection through a contaminated environment. The study employed a mixed-method and explanatory sequential design to supplement the quantitative results. Content analysis was utilized, and themes were generated based on the various fractional optimal control strategies scenarios employed. The basic mathematical model properties are studied. The existence and uniqueness of solutions in both classical fractional and stochastic cases are investigated. The study states that the BU model is determined. Time-dependent fractional optimal control is employed to explore the best strategy to minimize the spread of BU in the communities. The study suggests that public education on BU, drug efficacy, and public education on human shedding of mycobacterium ulcerans pathogens into the environment should be controlled to minimize the disease.