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Space, place and epidemiology : exploring and detecting spatial patterns of dengue fever through the exploratory geographical analysis system
Author
Sam, Charmaine Ming Shann
Abstract
An Exploratory Geographic Analysis System (EGAS) was developed by interfacing a GIS and spatial data analysis software. To fully utilise the current data-rich digital maps as well as to meet up with the increasing number of novice users, the analysis was conducted using a public domain GIS. The effectiveness of this package was tested through its application in analysing dengue fever in Singapore for 1996. It demonstrated that computerised methodology can be used for proving the conglomeration of the dengue fever incidences both at the national and Iocal levels. At the national level, the analytical techniques required include Moran's I for spatial autocorrelation and LlSA for spatial association at the national level. At the local level, kernel estimation is required for examining the intensity of the event occurrence, while K-function was used for studying the spatial dependency among events. Finally, STAC was employed to detect "Hot Spot Areas" for practical field investigation. The approach used exhibits its robustness by providing an insightful assessment into the spatial patterns of dengue fever disease. The findings were very encouraging and well received by the Vector Control Department (VCD), which expressed tremendous interest in adopting the system for their health-related planning.
Date Issued
1997
Call Number
RA934.S55 Sam
Date Submitted
1997