Simulations of a fox-rabies epidemic on an island using space-time finite elements

The two-dimensional reaction diffusion equations for the spread of rabies in a logistically growing fox population are solved numerically. The method, based upon Galerkin's approach, uses space-time finite elements. The numerical model is shown, quantitatively, to possess the essential features of earlier one and two-dimensional models and to reproduce the values of field data accurately. A more realistic illustration of the use of the model, a study of the spread of rabies over the Isle of Anglesey, is then discussed.