Heterogeneous R₀ — Network Epidemic Threshold

In homogeneous populations, an epidemic spreads if R₀ = β/γ > 1. On heterogeneous networks, the threshold shifts: R₀_eff = β/γ · ⟨k²⟩/⟨k⟩. For scale-free networks with degree exponent γ_d < 3, ⟨k²⟩ diverges, making the threshold vanish — any pathogen can spread! Herd immunity requires vaccinating the highest-degree "super-spreaders" preferentially.

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R₀ = β/γ | threshold: β⟨k⟩ > γ
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