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Spatial and Temporal Clustering of Chikungunya Virus Transmission in Dominica.

Authors :
Nsoesie EO
Ricketts RP
Brown HE
Fish D
Durham DP
Ndeffo Mbah ML
Christian T
Ahmed S
Marcellin C
Shelly E
Owers K
Wenzel N
Galvani AP
Brownstein JS
Source :
PLoS neglected tropical diseases [PLoS Negl Trop Dis] 2015 Aug 14; Vol. 9 (8), pp. e0003977. Date of Electronic Publication: 2015 Aug 14 (Print Publication: 2015).
Publication Year :
2015

Abstract

Using geo-referenced case data, we present spatial and spatio-temporal cluster analyses of the early spread of the 2013-2015 chikungunya virus (CHIKV) in Dominica, an island in the Caribbean. Spatial coordinates of the locations of the first 417 reported cases observed between December 15th, 2013 and March 11th, 2014, were captured using the Global Positioning System (GPS). We observed a preponderance of female cases, which has been reported for CHIKV outbreaks in other regions. We also noted statistically significant spatial and spatio-temporal clusters in highly populated areas and observed major clusters prior to implementation of intensive vector control programs suggesting early vector control measures, and education had an impact on the spread of the CHIKV epidemic in Dominica. A dynamical identification of clusters can lead to local assessment of risk and provide opportunities for targeted control efforts for nations experiencing CHIKV outbreaks.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1935-2735
Volume :
9
Issue :
8
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
PLoS neglected tropical diseases
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
26274813
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pntd.0003977