Dynamics of Rubella Virus in Populations with Different Vaccination Policies

Rubella is a contagious disease that affects individuals around the world. This mild disease becomes critical when a susceptible pregnant woman is infected. The fetus has a high risk of developing congenital rubella syndrome that leads to malformations and stillbirths. Interaction between countries with different vaccination policies can lead to an increase of rubella cases in either country. In this study we use mathematical models of differential equations to analyze how the interaction between Mexico and the United States affects the dynamics of Rubella. We show that the United States and Mexico must develop a dual policy to succeed in eradicating the rubella virus.