Stopping disease outbreaks through smart mapping
Smart mapping technology – also known as geographic information system (GIS) technology – integrates data from multiple systems, presenting the findings in the format of a dynamic map.
By linking data through their common geography, users are able to analyse, visualise, and detect patterns and trends that might otherwise be missed by other types of analyses.
The smart map, which features data from authoritative sources such as World Health Organization (WHO) and various government departments, was developed by Esri Hong Kong and was used by residents and visitors to easily check which buildings in their neighbourhoods had, or were suspected as having, cases of SARS.
These maps CAN be used to educate the general public on the Zika virus4. By doing so, the public are able to understand more about this threat, and the measures they can take to avoid becoming infected.
Smart mapping technology was used in the past for disease surveillance and control was during the 2014 to 2015 Ebola outbreak in West Africa.
When the United Nations UN Mission for Ebola Emergency Response was launched, they set a goal to reverse the upward trend of new cases with what WHO called the 70 70 60 plan. That is, 70 percent safe burials – as bodies remain contagious days after death – and 70 percent of the patients isolated within 60 days.
At the heart of the UN Mission’s operations was smart mapping technology. Both the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention and WHO, leveraged the platform to: evaluate the spread of the disease; map the locations of site treatment units and specialty labs; and, understand cultural practices around burials, languages spoken, transportation routes and more.
With such a plethora of information, health authorities were able to effectively allocate resources and facilities for diagnosis, treatment, and care of infected patients.
Apart from using smart maps to monitor and control the spread of the disease, other organisations have also used the technology to keep the community informed.
“During the SARS crisis in Hong Kong, citizens were anxious and afraid to go outdoors simply for fear of coming into contact with the disease. Since many are aware that the disease spread through proximity, the importance of location suddenly became very real to citizens. They were curious as to where the infected cases were located, and which areas are free of the disease. As result a web-based smart map was launched,” says Esri Singapore CEO Thomas Pramotedham.
“Being able to see authoritative information clearly presented on a map helps alleviate fears and concerns in the community. By having access to such information, they are able to make well-informed decisions that can potentially help users protect themselves and their families,” he said.
“Whether its figuring out how you can deliver better health outcomes for the community or investigating how you can protect your constituents from a potential disease outbreak, the value of smart maps have brought a powerful advantage that have made healthcare initiatives more effective and impactful,” Mr Pramotedham said.
Category: Features, Technology & Devices
