GIS based software technology assistance for effective control of malaria in Mangaluru, India

Abstract

Background: Mangaluru is malaria endemic costal city with Annual Parasitic incidence (API) ranging between 32/1000 population (2006) to 18 (2014). In spite of implementation of control programme and efforts, the disease is far from controlled. Breaking transmission cycle is crucial in controlling malarial disease.A web based android software for surveillance/program implementation was designed and implemented for aiding control of malaria in Mangaluru. An inter professional project of medical and technology architects,Malaria Control System(MCS) is a specialized GIS based software platform for implementation, monitoring and evaluation of malaria control activities. MCSinstantaneously connects people in malaria control with transfer of information towards treatment compliance, surveillance, anti-mosquito measures and evaluation. Web-based application is for hospitals and laboratories to log on and report incidences soon after diagnosis. GIS based data is captured transferred to multipurpose workers (MPW) for house visits within 48 hrs for actions within defined time frame. Methods & Materials: MCS Software was introduced in existing health system in October 2015 and is operational for past 24 months. Real-time digital data was analyzed to study impact during 1st and 2nd year after implementation and compared with that of previous year(PY). Reporting of cases, number of house visits, and closure of cases after confirming parasite clearance, numbers of sources identified/sources closed or eliminated were analyzed to assess implementation of control measures. API, annual blood examination rate (ABER) &; slide positivity rates (SPR) were analyzed and compared to assess disease control. Results: Reporting of cases within 72 hrs from point of diagnosis was 80%. House visits were incidence centric (as against random visits previously) and complete treatment with evidence of parasite clearance was documented in 89 % and 93%(1st & 2ndyr). Breeding was identified in 11,337 visits out of 1, 95,009 visits by MPW (1st year); 10545.visits out of 1,76,398visits(2ndyear) with photo-evidences, followed by elimination in over 92% in both years. Number of cases reported decreased from 12614 (1styr) to 7181 2ndyr). Progressive reduction in API (16/18/8 in previous year/1st/2ndyr); SPR (10.3/8.2/3.7in PY/1st/2ndyr) was documented. Conclusion: By using software technology, instantaneous transfer of information, and networking ensure’s effective implementation of malaria control program to break local transmission cycle.