Book Review ?Modelling Disease Ecology with Mathematics by Robert Smith?
Modelling Disease Ecology with Mathematics offers a gentle introduction into mathematical modelling to those non-mathematicians in the area of public health such as policy analysts, epidemiologists and clinicians
Overall, the author does a superb job of addressing a diverse audience. The writing style is straightforward. Topics ranging from simple epidemic models to solving partial differential equations (and more) are presented clearly while equation components and model descriptions are well defined. Each chapter builds on knowledge gained in the previous chapter. Practical examples of real world problems are given at the end of each chapter are worked through in their entirety followed by actual exercises which provide hands-on experience modelling outcomes using a computer program called Matlab.
The focus on the usefulness and practical applications of mathematical modelling as they relate to the spread of disease is what makes this book a must read for those non-mathematicians in the public health field. Not only do you come away with an increased understanding of mathematics, modelling and a computer program used by many mathematicians but you realize the importance of developing strong links between mathematical modellers and those in the public health field so that we can understand each other and potentially devise better interventions to manage the spread of disease in our communities.