Open AccessSpatial patterns of pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) cases in Zimbabwe from 2015 to 2018
Author(s) -
Isaiah Gwitira,
Norbert Karumazondo,
Munyaradzi Davis Shekede,
Charles Sandy,
N. Siziba,
Joconiah Chirenda
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
plos one
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.99
H-Index - 332
ISSN - 1932-6203
DOI - 10.1371/journal.pone.0249523
Subject(s) - geography , poverty , spatial analysis , cluster (spacecraft) , geographic information system , tuberculosis , environmental health , spatial heterogeneity , cartography , environmental resource management , medicine , economic growth , computer science , remote sensing , ecology , pathology , environmental science , economics , biology , programming language
Accurate mapping of spatial heterogeneity in tuberculosis (TB) cases is critical for achieving high impact control as well as guide resource allocation in most developing countries. The main aim of this study was to explore the spatial patterns of TB occurrence at district level in Zimbabwe from 2015 to 2018 using GIS and spatial statistics as a preamble to identifying areas with elevated risk for prioritisation of control and intervention measures. Methods In this study Getis-Ord G i * statistics together with SaTscan were used to characterise TB hotspots and clusters in Zimbabwe at district level from 2015 to 2018. GIS software was used to map and visualise the results of cluster analysis. Results Results show that TB occurrence exhibits spatial heterogeneity across the country. The TB hotspots were detected in the central, western and southern part of the country. These areas are characterised by artisanal mining activities as well as high poverty levels. Conclusions and recommendations Results of this study are useful to guide TB control programs and design effective strategies which are important in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development goals (UNSDGs).