GIS Mapping of Dengue Distribution

Project Overview

This project presents a district-level spatial analysis of dengue incidence in Sri Lanka for the years 2018, 2019, and 2020. Using Geographic Information Systems (GIS), thematic maps were developed to visualize the spatial and temporal distribution of dengue cases and to identify high-burden districts across the country.

Study Area

The study covers the entire island of Sri Lanka and analyses dengue case distribution at the district administrative level. This scale allows comparison between regions and supports national-level public health planning and decision-making.

Data Sources

District-level dengue case data (2018–2020)
Administrative boundary shapefiles – Sri Lanka
Base map layers for spatial reference
Secondary data sources used for academic purposes

Methodology

Data preprocessing and validation
Joining dengue case data with district boundaries
Thematic mapping using graduated colour symbology
Year-wise spatial comparison (2018, 2019, 2020)
Cartographic layout design for clear visual communication

Dengue Distribution Maps (2018–2020)

District-level dengue distribution maps of Sri Lanka (2018–2020)

The maps illustrate the spatial variation of dengue cases across Sri Lankan districts over three consecutive years. Darker colour shades represent higher dengue case counts, highlighting persistent and emerging high-risk regions.

Map Interpretation

High dengue incidence is observed in densely populated districts
Temporal variation indicates year-to-year changes in outbreak intensity
Urban and semi-urban districts show consistently higher case numbers
The maps support visual identification of priority intervention areas

Tools & Skills

QGIS
Thematic mapping and spatial visualization
Public health GIS applications
Data classification and cartographic design

Conclusion

This project demonstrates how GIS can be effectively used to visualize and analyze public health data. The district-level dengue maps provide valuable spatial insights that can support disease monitoring, awareness programmes, and evidence-based public health planning in Sri Lanka.