Bayesian spatial analysis and disease mapping: tools to enhance planning and implementation of a schistosomiasis control programme in Tanzania.
OBJECTIVE
To predict the spatial distributions of Schistosoma haematobium and S. mansoni infections to assist planning the implementation of mass distribution of praziquantel as part of an on-going national control programme in Tanzania.


METHODS
Bayesian geostatistical models were developed using parasitological data from 143 schools.


RESULTS
In the S. haematobium models, although land surface temperature and rainfall were significant predictors of prevalence, they became non-significant when spatial correlation was taken into account. In the S. mansoni models, distance to water bodies and annual minimum temperature were significant predictors, even when adjusting for spatial correlation. Spatial correlation occurred over greater distances for S. haematobium than for S. mansoni. Uncertainties in predictions were examined to identify areas requiring further data collection before programme implementation.


CONCLUSIONS
Bayesian geostatistical analysis is a powerful and statistically robust tool for identifying high prevalence areas in a heterogeneous and imperfectly known environment.
Clements
Archie C A
AC
Schistosomiasis Control Initiative, Imperial College London, London, UK.
Lwambo
Nicholas J S
NJ
Blair
Lynsey
L
Nyandindi
Ursuline
U
Kaatano
Godfrey
G
Kinung'hi
Safari
S
Webster
Joanne P
JP
Fenwick
Alan
A
Brooker
Simon
S
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000871:Anthelmintics / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001499:Bayes Theorem; D002648:Child; D003140:Communicable Disease Control / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D006285:Health Planning / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D015233:Models, Statistical; D009313:National Health Programs / Q000458:organization & administration*; D011223:Praziquantel / Q000627:therapeutic use; D015995:Prevalence; D012553:Schistosomiasis haematobia / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D012555:Schistosomiasis mansoni / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D013636:Tanzania / Q000453:epidemiology; D013696:Temperature; D019371:Topography, Medical / Q000379:methods*; D014881:Water Supply
D000871:Anthelmintics; D011223:Praziquantel