Exploring Geospatial and Socio Economic Factors Contributing for Malaria Prevalence in Aysaita Woreda, Afar Regional State, Ethiopia.
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Date
2013-06-06
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Malaria found throughout the world except the frozen part of our world. It has been affecting
human beings since the dawn of history. Currently, it is one of the major tropical diseases
specially affecting the health of the peoples and the economic development of many
developing countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. The study area (Aysaita woreda) is
considered as one of the most malaria susceptible area which is located in North East of
Ethiopia. Its geographic locations which is suitable for malaria to develop and reproduce, like
overflow of awash river due to the rainy season on high lands, environmental conditions
including temperature, elevation, seasonality, and vegetation cover. Biological and social
factors also share in influencing vector development and malaria transmission. Therefore,
this study has attempt in identifying and mapping of malaria prone area with the use of
Remote Sensing and GIS technology. Possible geospatial and socio economic factors were
identified, assessed and finally overlaid with the help of malaria risk computation model.
Based on this model the mapping of malaria risk includes hazard, element at risk, and
vulnerability. These layers were prioritized according to their degree of influence. Pair wise
comparison of the factors was carried out to develop the following weights for each factor in
IDRISI software. The weights given for the factors was computed, Combined and analyzed
in ArcGIS environment using spatial analyst tool and the final output map produced. And it
shows that 46.45 percent, 53.24 percent and 0.31 percent of the total area are subject to High,
Moderate and Low respectively. Hence, it is possible to conclude that 99.69 percent of the
study area is under epidemic area (high and moderate). Only 0.31 percent is in low epidemic
area. Furthermore, the produced map of malaria risk area which can be used as an input for
policy makers and other responsible bodies. Besides these groups, the experts in the field will
benefit more by acquiring readymade information which serves as a spring board for national
malaria eradication and prevention program.
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Keywords
Remote Sensing and GIS, Malaria Risk, Malaria Hazard