Super compact pairwise model for SIS epidemic on heterogeneous networks

Abstract: In this paper we provide the derivation of a super compact pairwise model with only 4 equations in the context of describing susceptible-infected-susceptible (SIS) epidemic dynamics on heterogenous networks. The super compact model is based on a new closure relation that involves not only the average degree but also the second and third moments of the degree distribution. Its derivation uses an a priori approximation of the degree distribution of susceptible nodes in terms of the degree distribution of the network. The new closure gives excellent agreement with heterogeneous pairwise models that contain significantly more differential equations.