Transmission dynamics and control of cholera in Haiti: an epidemic model

Background Official projections of the cholera epidemic in Haiti have not incorporated existing disease trends or patterns of transmission, and proposed interventions have been debated without comparative estimates of their effect. We used a mathematical model of the epidemic to provide projections of future morbidity and mortality, and to Produce comparative estimates of the effects of proposed interventions. Methods We designed mathematical models of cholera transmission based on existing models and fitted them to incidence data reported in Haiti for each province from Oct 31, 2010, to Jan 24, 2011. We then simulated future epidemic trajectories from March 1 to Nov 30, 2011, to estimate the effect of clean water, vaccination, and enhanced antibiotic distribution programmes. Findings We project 779 000 cases of cholera in Haiti (95% CI 599 000-914 000) and 11 100 deaths (7300-17 400) between March 1 and Nov 30, 2011. We expect that a 1% per week reduction in consumption of contaminated water would avert 105 000 cases (88 000-116 000) and 1500 deaths (1100-2300). We predict that the vaccination of 10% of the population, from March 1, will avert 63 000 cases (48 000-78 000) and 900 deaths (600-1500). The proposed extension of the use of antibiotics to all patients with severe dehydration and half of patients with moderate dehydration is expected to avert 9000 cases (8000-10 000) and 1300 deaths (900-2000). Interpretation A decline in cholera prevalence in early 2011 is part of the natural course of the epidemic, and should not be interpreted as indicative of successful intervention. Substantially more cases of cholera are expected than official estimates used for resource allocation. Combined, clean water provision, vaccination, and expanded access to antibiotics might avert thousands of deaths.