Estimation of Parameters in a Closed Pygmy Population in Cameroon

Abstract

Inspired by Kouakep [16], we consider in this note a well-posed model with differential susceptibility and infectivity adding continuous age structure to an ODE model for a “Baka” pygmy group in the East of Cameroon (Africa). Assuming a very low contribution of carriers to infection compared to acute infection, we estimate a probability $p(a)$ (to develop symptomatic Hepatitis B state at age $a$) and acute carriers’ transmission rate. The value $R_0 = 2:67 > 1$ of the basic reproduction number estimated from data in the east of Cameroon confirms that HBV is endemic in the Baka pygmy group.