The objective of the proposal is to develop a novel, comprehensive database management system integrated with a Geographic Information System (GIS) for (I) monitoring and forecasting arboviral epidemiology and (2) planning appropriate intervention strategies to reduce risk to the public. Phase I will develop a prototype GIS/Database System incorporating data specifically relevant to eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) and Highlands J (HJ) viruses in Plymouth County, Massachusetts - a region with the greatest enzootic and epizootic virus activity in the state. GIS/database components previously employed by ACR to perform similar work have been selected to facilitate data input, display and manipulation of raster and vector data. An array of statistical, temporal and spatial data techniques will permit development of predictive and preventative modeling tools. Phase II will expand the prototype system into a comprehensive multi-user database/GIS application functioning in a cross-platform computer environment capable of linking local mosquito control projects to state, regional and federal networks.Awardee's statement of the potential commercial applications of the research:The proposed database/GIS system will ultimately result in commercialization of new "user-friendly package" of immediate appeal and utility to diverse commercial clients, including, for example, the American Mosquito Control Association's more than 1,000 North American members. The system will standardize virtually all record keeping and operational planning activities of local, county and state-wide mosquito control and epidemiological personnel. Its functional simplicity, versatility and projected low cost will appeal to diverse end-users, including vector control district staff, public health officers, and university researchers.National Center for Infectious Diseases (NCID)
