Aims and Objectives















Models will be constructed using geographic information systems (GIS) methods, global climate model data, sensor data from earth observing satellites, disease prevalence data, the distribution and abundance of snail hosts, and digital maps of key environmental factors that affect development and propagation of snail-borne disease agents. The specific objectives of the residency were to:

  1. Evaluate current plans and potential for application of emerging technologies on global climate models, earth observing environmental satellites and geographic information systems to national control programs for schistosomiasis.

   2. Develop a strategic plan and organizational structure for a network of collaborating medical and earth scientists to share electronic database resources, research results and progress of national control programs to facilitate new member recruitment and successful global use of GIS 'health map' methodology for control of snail borne disease.

3. Develop successful global use of GIS 'health map' methodology for control of snail borne disease. Develop a work plan to: 1) obtain funding for a GIS Network for Control of Snail Borne Disease, 2) publish proceedings of the Team Residency, and 3) apply for an international conference to be held at Bellagio in 2004 to present and analyze results and develop updated recommendations on use of health maps for disease control.