Sustainable Coexistence with Infectious Diseases: A Behavioral Feedback Model Driven by Resource Accessibility under
Yangyang Zhang1,2, Huijun Liu3, Sanyi Tang1,2
1Shanxi Key Laboratory for Mathematical Technology in Complex Systems, Shanxi University, No. 92 Wucheng Road, Taiyuan, 030006, Shanxi, China.
Bulletin of Mathematical Biology
|June 3, 2026
Summary
This study models epidemic behavior to find optimal coexistence strategies. Adaptive public responses drive waves, but timely interventions and caution minimize costs and infections for effective endemic disease management.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Mathematical Biology
- Public Health Policy
Background:
- Endemic diseases require sustainable management strategies.
- Public behavior significantly influences disease transmission dynamics.
- Optimizing interventions balances control costs with public health outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a behavior-disease feedback model using imitation dynamics.
- To analyze optimal static and dynamic strategies for long-term epidemic coexistence.
- To provide insights for resource allocation and policy in endemic disease management.
Main Methods:
- Developed a behavior-disease feedback model based on imitation dynamics.
- Analyzed system stability using basic reproduction number and behavioral threshold.
- Conducted data-driven analyses for influenza and COVID-19.
- Performed dynamic optimization simulations for transmission rate and behavioral threshold control.
Main Results:
- System stability depends on basic reproduction number and behavioral threshold.
- Risk perception and behavioral threshold jointly determine static intervention intensity.
- Adaptive public behavior can lead to recurrent epidemic waves.
- Timely interventions during rapid growth phases prevent oscillations and rebound.
- Faster public response reduces costs and infection burden.
- Proactive, phased strategies are more cost-effective than short, intense measures.
- Lowering target prevalence requires earlier action and increased public caution, reducing peak magnitude.
Conclusions:
- Optimal epidemic control involves understanding behavior-disease feedback loops.
- Dynamic and adaptive strategies, considering public response, are crucial for endemic disease management.
- Early, cautious interventions and phased approaches enhance cost-effectiveness and reduce disease burden.
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