Global Dynamics of an SIS Model on Metapopulation Networks with Demographics

In this paper, we propose a susceptible-infected-susceptible (SIS) epidemic model with demographics on heterogeneous metapopulation networks. We analytically derive the basic reproduction number, which determines not only the existence of endemic equilibrium but also the global dynamics of the model. The model always has the disease-free equilibrium, which is globally asymptotically stable when the basic reproduction number is less than unity and otherwise unstable. We also provide sufficient conditions on the global stability of the unique endemic equilibrium. Numerical simulations are performed to illustrate the theoretical results and the effects of the connectivity and diffusion. Furthermore, we find that diffusion rates play an active role in controlling the spread of infectious diseases.