Impact of asymptomatic infections on malaria transmission dynamics

A considerable proportion of malaria infections are asymptomatic, serving as reservoirs that sustain transmission. This study develops a deterministic mathematical model to examine the spread of malaria with a focus on asymptomatic infections. By analyzing key properties such as positivity, boundedness, and stability of equilibria, the model highlights the epidemiological relevance of these silent carriers. The basic reproduction number $R_0$ was calculated using the next-generation matrix method, revealing critical dynamics, including backward bifurcation. The quantitative result of the threshold $R_0$ reveals that asymptomatic cases contribute approximately 30 % to the basic reproduction number, while symptomatic cases account for about 70 %. These findings highlight the need for integrated control strategies that address both symptomatic and asymptomatic malaria cases to effectively manage and reduce malaria transmission.