Statistical Analysis of Spatial Distribution of Malaria In West Shoa Zone, Ethiopia
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Date
2011-05
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Addis Abeba university
Abstract
Malaria is a major cause of illness and death in large parts of the developing world,
especially in Africa. Accurate estimates of malaria distribution are required for planning,
implementation and evaluation of malaria control programs. The main objective of this
study is to examine spatial patterns of malaria distribution in West Shoa zone, Oromia
Region, Ethiopia. Malaria incidence data for 2009 from all health centers of the zone,
population size and meteorological data were used. The statistical methods used include
global and local measures of spatial autocorrelation as well as spatial autoregressive
model. The results of this study indicate that malaria incidence varies according to
geographical location, with eco-climatic condition and showing significant positive
spatial autocorrelation. Significant local clustering of malaria incidence occurs between
pairs of neighboring districts (known as Woredas). Malaria incidence was higher in the
western part of the zone and lower in the eastern part of the zone. The results of spatial
lag model indicate a significant relationship between malaria incidence and
meteorological variables (mid-land zone, hot zone, rainfall, minimum temperature and
maximum temperature)
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Keywords
Spatial Distribution of Malaria