JMR_2024v14n3

Journal of Mosquito Research 2024, Vol.14, No.3, 161-171 http://emtoscipublisher.com/index.php/jmr 163 monitoring, and health records, GIS provides a holistic view of mosquito distribution and disease incidence. For instance, GIS has been used to map the distribution of malaria and dengue fever in Pakistan, integrating data from hospitals, clinics, and laboratories to identify outbreaks and monitor control measures. Additionally, GIS can incorporate environmental data such as land use, vegetation, and weather patterns, which are crucial for understanding the drivers of mosquito distribution and disease transmission (Akindele et al., 2023; Uzair and Tariq, 2023). 3.2 Mapping and visualization of mosquito populations One of the primary applications of GIS in mosquito monitoring is the mapping and visualization of mosquito populations. GIS allows for the creation of detailed maps that display the spatial distribution of mosquito breeding sites and disease cases. For example, in Malaysia, GIS was used to map larval breeding habitats and malaria transmission risk areas, combining field data with satellite imagery to visualize the distribution patterns of vector species (Ahmad et al., 2011). Similarly, GIS has been employed to generate risk maps for dengue virus exposure, aiding in the development of targeted vector control strategies (Eisen and Lozano-Fuentes, 2009). 3.3 Temporal analysis and trend prediction GIS also enables temporal analysis and trend prediction, providing insights into the dynamics of mosquito populations and disease outbreaks over time. By analyzing spatial and temporal data, researchers can identify trends and predict future outbreaks, allowing for proactive control measures. For instance, GIS has been used to map the spatiotemporal distribution of malaria cases in Pakistan, identifying hotspots of transmission and guiding targeted interventions. The integration of remote sensing data with GIS further enhances the ability to monitor changes in land use and climate, which can impact mosquito distribution and disease incidence (Mueller et al., 2022). 3.4 Identification of high-risk areas Identifying high-risk areas for mosquito-borne diseases is crucial for effective control and prevention. GIS provides the tools to analyze spatial data and identify clusters or hotspots of disease transmission. For example, GIS was used to map the distribution of dengue cases in Lahore, Pakistan, identifying high-risk areas for transmission and guiding control measures such as the removal of mosquito breeding sites and the distribution of larvicide (Uzair and Tariq, 2023). Similarly, GIS has been employed to map the distribution of Japanese Encephalitis in Pakistan, identifying risk factors such as land use and weather patterns to prioritize intervention areas (Uzair and Tariq, 2023). 3.5 Integration with other technologies The integration of GIS with other technologies, such as remote sensing and drones, further enhances mosquito monitoring capabilities. Remote sensing provides high-resolution satellite imagery that can be used to identify and map mosquito breeding habitats, while drones offer a cost-effective means of conducting aerial surveys and collecting real-time data. For instance, GIS combined with remote sensing has been used to map the distribution of helminth infections, providing reliable estimates of populations at risk and guiding intervention strategies. The use of WebGIS and other geospatial tools has also been critical in visualizing data and informing public health decisions during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating the potential for these technologies in future public health emergencies (Ahasan et al., 2020). GIS plays a multifaceted role in mosquito monitoring, from data collection and integration to mapping, temporal analysis, and the identification of high-risk areas. The integration of GIS with other technologies further enhances its capabilities, making it an invaluable tool in the fight against mosquito-borne diseases. 4 Applications of GIS in Different Phases of Mosquito Monitoring 4.1 Surveillance and data collection Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have revolutionized the surveillance and data collection phase of mosquito monitoring by providing a spatial and temporal perspective on disease occurrence. GIS can map the

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