Abstract
IntroductionAccurate 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.MethodsIn this study Getis-Ord Gi* 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.ResultsResults 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 recommendationsResults 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).
Highlights
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
Results show that TB occurrence exhibits spatial heterogeneity across the country
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)
Summary
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. In an effort to reduce TB incidence, Zimbabwe adopted the global World Health Organization (WHO) ‘End TB Strategy’ which aims to reduce annual TB-related deaths by 95% and TB incidence by 90% at the end of 2035 compared to 2015 [3, 8]. This strategy is in line with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) SDG 3 which targets to end the global TB epidemic by 2030 [9]
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