Fractional optimal control of COVID-19 pandemic model with generalized Mittag-Leffler function

In this paper, we consider a fractional COVID-19 epidemic model with a convex incidence rate. The Atangana–Baleanu fractional operator in the Caputo sense is taken into account. We establish the equilibrium points, basic reproduction number, and local stability at both the equilibrium points. The existence and uniqueness of the solution are proved by using Banach and Leray–Schauder alternative type theorems. For the fractional numerical simulations, we use the Toufik–Atangana scheme. Optimal control analysis is carried out to minimize the infection and maximize the susceptible people.