ROLE OF GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION-SYSTEM IN MALARIA CONTROL

In this paper we provide an account of our experience in the applicati on of remote sensing (RS) and geographic information system (GIS) in u nderstanding malaria transmission dynamics at the local level. Two stu dies have been briefly reviewed. One is the application of RS on the m osquito production in the Sanjay lake and surrounding areas in Delhi. Studies are demonstrated that remote sensing data were useful in asses sing relative mosquito abundance from large water bodies. The second s tudy was carried out in Nadiad taluka, Kheda district, Gujarat on the application of RS and GIS in a village-wise analysis of receptivity an d vulnerability to malaria. For this study, remote sensed data and top o sheets of 1:50,000 and 1:125,000 were used in preparing thematic map s. Digitised overlaid maps were subjected to computer analysis using A RC/INFO 3.1 software. Malaria annual parasite incidence (API) showed r elationship with water table followed by soil type, irrigation and wat er duality, other parameters also contributed to malaria receptivity b ut less significantly. Based on GIS analysis location specific malaria control strategy was suggested to achieve cost effective control of m alaria on a sustainable basis.