Spatial Analysis of Dengue Cases in Guadalupe, Nuevo Leon, Mexico 1995-1996

The spatial and temporal distributions of dengue fever cases in Guadalupe, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, were analyzed using a geographic information system (GIS). Data were obtained from the Secretary of Health of Nuevo Leon and mapped for the Municipality of Guadalupe, N.L., using CARTALINX and IDRISI programs. Confirmed cases of dengue (689) occurred mostly during October (42.3%) and November (43.9%). More females (59.1%) were infected than males. Individuals 21 to 30 years of age had the highest prevalence (25.3%). Dengue cases were ranked at 5 leveks: 1-01-2 cases; 2=3-5, 3=6-7, 4=4-9, and 5>9, and then mapped. The spatil distribution of 545 cases was concentrated in the southern part of city in 1995 and in the south/central part in October 1996. However, in November the concentration was in the west central region of the city Factors like human population densities and failure of basic sanitary services contributed to the incidences and distribution of dengue cases in Guadalupe.