[Application of space-time scan statistics in early warning of distribution of schistosome infected Oncomelania hupensis snails].

OBJECTIVE

To explore the application of space-time scan statistics in the early warning of distribution of schistosome infected Oncomelania hupensis snails.

METHODS

The data of distribution of infected snails in Anhui Province from 2006 to 2012 were collected, and a spatial database was established by ArcGIS 9.3. The prospective spatial-temporal cluster analysis was done by SaTscan 9.1.1 at the village level.

RESULTS

Four space-time clusters, which were distributed over the Yangtze River and its branch rivers, were detected.

CONCLUSION

The space-time scan statistics could detect the distribution of infected snails early, and the space-time clusters found were the key and difficult points of schistosomiasis control in Anhui Province.