Bifurcations and the exchange of stability with coinfection

Abstract

We perform a bifurcation analysis on an SIR model involving two pathogens that influences each other. Partial cross-immunity is assumed and coinfection is thought to be less transmittable then each of the diseases alone. The susceptible class has density dependent growth with carrying capacity $K$. Our model generalizes the model developed in our previous papers by introducing the possibility for coinfected individuals to spread only one of the diseases when in contact with a susceptible. We perform a bifurcation analysis and prove the existence of a branch of stable equilibrium points parmeterized by $K$. The branch bifurcates for some $K$ resulting in changes in which compartments are present as well as the overall dynamics of the system. Depending on the parameters different transition scenarios occur.