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Mapping malaria hotspots through spatial and spatio-temporal analysis in Sierra Leone, 2021-2024
A M Falama1, O Omoniwa2, M S Kanu1
1National Malaria Control Programme, Ministry of Health, Freetown, Sierra Leone.
Malaria cases in Sierra Leone show significant spatial clustering, with persistent high-risk areas identified between 2021-2024. No national link was found between malaria incidence and surrounding rainfall patterns.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Spatial Analysis
Background:
- Malaria remains a significant public health challenge in Sierra Leone.
- Understanding the spatial and temporal dynamics of malaria is crucial for effective control strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the spatial and spatio-temporal distribution of malaria incidence in Sierra Leone from 2021 to 2024.
- To investigate the relationship between malaria incidence and rainfall in surrounding areas.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional geospatial study utilizing District Health Information System 2 (DHIS2) data.
- Spatial clustering analysis using Moran's I and space-time Poisson models.
- Assessment of malaria incidence and rainfall association using bivariate Moran's I.
Main Results:
- Over 7.4 million malaria cases reported between 2021-2024, with incidence varying widely by chiefdom.
- Significant spatial clustering of malaria incidence was observed nationwide.
- Persistent high-risk and low-risk malaria clusters were identified, indicating heterogeneous transmission patterns.
Conclusions:
- Malaria transmission in Sierra Leone is characterized by spatial and temporal heterogeneity.
- Persistent malaria hotspots necessitate targeted subnational interventions for elimination.
- No significant national-level association was found between malaria incidence and surrounding rainfall.
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