A two-layer model with partial mapping: Unveiling the interplay between information dissemination and disease diffusion

Abstract

This study delves into the pivotal role of information dissemination in public health, particularly how it influences the spread of diseases. By implementing a sophisticated two-layer partial mapping network model (UAU-SIRS), we investigate the dynamic relationship between information flow and disease transmission. Our approach utilizes extensive multiplexed network data, processed through a micro Markov chain (MMC) model, to simulate the interplay between information spread and disease dynamics. The findings reveal a noteworthy positive correlation between the rates of information dissemination, recovery in the network, and the epidemic threshold. Conversely, the conversion rate is inversely related to this threshold. A critical observation is that Scale-free (SF) networks, characterized by their uneven node distribution, are more susceptible to the impacts of information spread on their outbreak thresholds compared to Erdős-Rényi (ER) networks. This research offers crucial insights for epidemic prevention strategies and provides valuable guidance for managing the dissemination of disease-related information within complex network structures.