Application of a geographical information system approach for risk analysis of fascioliasis in southern Espírito Santo state, Brazil

A model based on geographical information systems for mapping the risk of fascioliasis was developed for the southern part of Espírito Santo state, Brazil. The determinants investigated were precipitation, temperature, elevation, slope, soil type and land use. Weightings and grades were assigned to...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Isabella Vilhena Freire Martins, Barbara Rauta de Avelar, Maria Julia Salim Pereira, Adevair Henrique da Fonseca
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: PAGEPress Publications 2012-09-01
Series:Geospatial Health
Subjects:
Online Access:http://www.geospatialhealth.net/index.php/gh/article/view/126
Description
Summary:A model based on geographical information systems for mapping the risk of fascioliasis was developed for the southern part of Espírito Santo state, Brazil. The determinants investigated were precipitation, temperature, elevation, slope, soil type and land use. Weightings and grades were assigned to determinants and their categories according to their relevance with respect to fascioliasis. Theme maps depicting the spatial distribution of risk areas indicate that over 50% of southern Espírito Santo is either at high or at very high risk for fascioliasis. These areas were found to be characterized by comparatively high temperature but relatively low slope, low precipitation and low elevation corresponding to periodically flooded grasslands or soils that promote water retention.
ISSN:1827-1987
1970-7096