Geography is important, but often underestimated by the public at-large. Without geography then certain kinds of data can only be used as a statistic, and not a tool to better understand and address problems or patterns present in our world.
Half the world’s population lives in areas that are at risk of spreading malaria. In 2012, malaria caused an estimated 207 million clinical episodes and 627,000 deaths, according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC). But what does this mean? What areas are susceptible? Are you at risk? Where should we send aid? How can aid be dispersed in the most efficient manner? Without geography these numbers have no context. These are the problems that geography helps solve.
Most cases of malaria occur in Africa, in tropical and subtropical regions that harbor the mosquito that is responsible for the rapid spread of this disease. Insecticide-treated bed nets (ITNs) are an immediate way to protect families from the mosquitos and repel them from the house. For pregnant women and infants who are more likely to die of the disease, an antimalarial drug can be administered.
Understanding the spread of malaria can help us treat those infected and help prevention efforts. (Credit: Center for Disease Control)Knowing who is infected and where they are is important, however the task can be overwhelming as it spans over several continents and countries while receiving limited resources from aid agencies. This is where Map Mavin is a lifesaving resource. People on the ground can map malaria cases as they occur as well as note which homes need nets. With this information, administrators can readily see which regions need the most aid and in what form. Map Mavin’s simple design and interface makes it easy for anyone to contribute with very little training. Clear and concise data cuts down on cost and insures that resources are distributed in a way that helps the most people possible.
See how Map Mavin can help solve your geography problems here.
Katie Nelson
Geospatial Ninja
(303) 718-7163
katie@apollomapping.com
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