Transmission models of Mycobacterium ulcerans: A systematic review

Abstract

Background: Buruli ulcer, caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans, is a neglected tropical disease affecting 33 countries worldwide. Elucidating the full transmission pathways of this infection remains an important active field of investigation, especially in Central and West Africa and Southeast Australia in the state of Victoria where disease burden is high. This systematic review (pre-registered on PROSPERO: CRD42023452944) provides an overview of mathematical transmission models of M. ulcerans and highlights future areas of investigation crucial to understanding transmission of Buruli ulcer and quantifying the impact of potential preventative interventions. Methodology/principal findings: We se..