Epidemic processes in networks: a comprehensive study of SIR model and network topologies

In this paper, we explore the dynamics of epidemic processes on different types of single-layer network structures, emphasizing the impact of network structure on the spread of disease. We first propose a single-layer SIR (susceptible-infected-recovered) network model and investigate the impact of network structure on virus transmission. Numerical simulation results indicate that in scale-free networks, infections in hub nodes lead to faster and more widespread spread compared to the absence of such a network. In terms of epidemic control, the importance of disconnecting key nodes is emphasized. In random networks, transmission is generally faster and has higher peak infection levels than in scale-free networks. The findings reveal that network topology and initial infection nodes profoundly influence virus spread patterns, offering critical insights for designing targeted epidemic control strategies that minimize transmission by breaking key network links.