Global dynamics of difference equations for SIR epidemic models with a class of nonlinear incidence rates

In this paper, by applying a variation of the backward Euler method, we propose a discrete-time SIR epidemic model whose discretization scheme preserves the global asymptotic stability of equilibria for a class of corresponding continuous-time SIR epidemic models. Using discrete-time analogue of Lyapunov functionals, the global asymptotic stability of the equilibria is fully determined by the basic reproduction number, when the infection incidence rate has a suitable monotone property. © 2012 Copyright Taylor and Francis Group, LLC