Spatio-Temporal Distribution of Malaria in Perak, Malaysia

Norzawati Yoep¹, Hazrin Hasim¹, Ummi Nadiah Yusoff¹, Mahani Yusoff², Noor Rizawati Mahpot²

¹Institute for Public Health, Ministry of Health, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
²Vector Borne Disease Control Unit, Perak State Health Department, Ministry of Health, Ipoh, Malaysia.

DOI: 10.4236/aid.2015.54019                

Abstract

Malaria incidence in Perak, Malaysia has generally declined, but there remain regions of high incidence. The spatio-temporal distribution pattern of malaria in Perak was studied using Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and spatial statistical tools. Malaria data cases at the subdistrict level in Perak from 2007 to 2011 were analysed to determine the spatial and temporal distribution patterns of malaria incidence. Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and spatial statistical tools were used to identify spatial correlation in the data and malaria hot-spots. Spatial correlation was tested by using an autocorrelation method called Moran’s I. Hot spot analysis was done using Getis-Ord G^* statistic technique. Malaria incidence rates were categorized into 3 classes to map the spatial distribution. Malaria cases in Perak were geo-spatially clustered. Most of the hot spots locations were in Kenering, Ulu Kinta, Gerik and Kampar sub-districts. The prevalence of malaria among foreigners was noticeably higher than Malaysians. Improved surveillance of foreign workers can prevent outbreaks and identify high risk areas. This study implies that geographic-based mapping and information system are needed for an effective malaria control.

Keywords

Malaria, Spatial, GIS, Geocoding

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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