Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 8, 2026
16:14
Trajectory Data Analyses for Pedestrian Space-time Activity Study
Published on: February 25, 2013
Spatial analysis of an anthrax outbreak in Saskatchewan, 2006
Tasha Epp1, Connie Argue, Cheryl Waldner
1Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5B4. tasha.epp@usask.ca
Summary
An anthrax outbreak in Saskatchewan affected over 800 animals. Spatial analysis revealed East Central Saskatchewan as a high-risk zone, with spring flooding and hot, dry weather potentially contributing factors.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary epidemiology
- Spatial statistics
- Environmental health
Background:
- A significant anthrax outbreak occurred in Saskatchewan in 2006.
- The outbreak impacted over 800 animals across 150 distinct locations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the spatial and temporal distribution of anthrax cases.
- To identify significant trends and high-risk areas associated with the 2006 outbreak.
Main Methods:
- Utilized spatial and spatiotemporal statistical methods.
- Analyzed case and population data at both farm and rural municipality levels.
- Employed techniques including Oden's Ipop, Cuzick-Edwards' test, and spatial scan tests.
Main Results:
- Identified East Central Saskatchewan as a primary high-risk area.
- Pinpointed July 2006 as a peak period for the outbreak.
- Highlighted specific spatial clusters and temporal trends.
Conclusions:
- The study identified East Central Saskatchewan as a key region for the anthrax outbreak.
- Environmental factors, specifically spring flooding followed by hot, dry conditions, are suggested as potential contributors to the outbreak's development in the high-risk zone.
Related Concept Videos
01:18Steps in Outbreak Investigation
In the ever-evolving field of public health, statistical analysis serves as a cornerstone for understanding and managing disease outbreaks. By leveraging various statistical tools, health professionals can predict potential outbreaks, analyze ongoing situations, and devise effective responses to mitigate impact. For that to happen, there are a few possible stages of the analysis:
01:23Investigation of Disease Outbreaks
Multistate foodborne outbreaks pose significant public health risks and require meticulous investigation to identify sources and implement control measures. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) utilizes a dynamic seven-step process for these investigations, integrating data from laboratories, interviews, and environmental assessments to protect public health.Outbreak Detection: The detection of multistate outbreaks typically begins with PulseNet, the CDC's national laboratory...
01:25Inhalation Anthrax
Anthrax is a zoonotic disease caused by Bacillus anthracis, a Gram-positive, spore-forming bacterium. It primarily affects herbivorous animals but can be transmitted to humans through skin contact, ingestion, or inhalation of spores.Cutaneous anthrax, the most common form, typically results from direct contact with bacterial spores through skin abrasions and is generally less severe. Gastrointestinal anthrax results from eating undercooked or contaminated meat. It affects the mouth, throat, or...
01:21Manipulation and Analysis
GIS manipulation and analysis functions are vital for decision-making and planning. These activities range from data retrieval tasks, such as selecting information based on specific criteria, to advanced analytical techniques that address complex spatial problems.One critical GIS analysis method is overlaying, which combines multiple data layers to examine impacts. For example, overlaying a river-dammed lake boundary with road networks can identify affected infrastructure. Another common...
01:25Statistical Methods for Analyzing Epidemiological Data
Epidemiological data primarily involves information on specific populations' occurrence, distribution, and determinants of health and diseases. This data is crucial for understanding disease patterns and impacts, aiding public health decision-making and disease prevention strategies. The analysis of epidemiological data employs various statistical methods to interpret health-related data effectively. Here are some commonly used methods: