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Multistability and high codimension bifurcations in synergistic epidemics on heterogeneous networks

Francisco J. Pérez-Reche1,* and Sergei N. Taraskin2,†

  • *Contact author: fperez-reche@abdn.ac.uk
  • †Contact author: snt1000@cam.ac.uk

Phys. Rev. E 112, L032301 – Published 2 September, 2025

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/pnvl-zkq7

Abstract

We investigate the impact of network heterogeneity on synergistic contagion dynamics. By extending a synergistic contagion model to diverse heterogeneous network topologies, we uncover the emergence of novel dynamical regimes characterized by multiple stable states, separated by a rich set of bifurcations reaching up to codimension 4. Additionally, we demonstrate how synergy fundamentally reshapes the influence of nodes based on their degree. Unlike in nonsynergistic epidemics, low-degree nodes can play a pivotal role in enabling network invasion at the onset of spread, while high-degree nodes can trigger explosive contagion. These findings challenge conventional control strategies, highlighting the need for new approaches to enhance or suppress synergistic contagion.

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