2012 October 12; 338(6104): 267–270. doi:10.1126/science.1223467. | Amy Wesolowski1,2, Nathan Eagle3, Andrew J. Tatem4,5,6, David L. Smith6,7, Abdisalan M. Noor8,9, Robert W. Snow8,9, and Caroline O. Buckee3,10
This study investigates the impact of human mobility on malaria transmission in Kenya by analyzing mobile phone data and malaria prevalence information. The authors identify specific routes of parasite importation between regions, highlighting the importance of "returning residents" and "visitors" in driving parasite dispersal. The analysis reveals that Nairobi is a major hub for human and parasite movements, with the capital and its surroundings being significant destinations for both humans and parasites. The study also pinpoints "source" and "sink" regions, where the highest volumes of parasite importation occur, particularly around Lake Victoria and in the coastal areas. The findings suggest that control programs should focus on these regions to effectively combat malaria. Additionally, the study compares mobile phone data with clinical surveys in Nairobi, suggesting that local transmission may occur in less developed areas of the city. The research provides insights into the connectivity among different regions and can inform regional elimination strategies and targeted interventions.This study investigates the impact of human mobility on malaria transmission in Kenya by analyzing mobile phone data and malaria prevalence information. The authors identify specific routes of parasite importation between regions, highlighting the importance of "returning residents" and "visitors" in driving parasite dispersal. The analysis reveals that Nairobi is a major hub for human and parasite movements, with the capital and its surroundings being significant destinations for both humans and parasites. The study also pinpoints "source" and "sink" regions, where the highest volumes of parasite importation occur, particularly around Lake Victoria and in the coastal areas. The findings suggest that control programs should focus on these regions to effectively combat malaria. Additionally, the study compares mobile phone data with clinical surveys in Nairobi, suggesting that local transmission may occur in less developed areas of the city. The research provides insights into the connectivity among different regions and can inform regional elimination strategies and targeted interventions.