Mapping The Spatial Distribution Of COVID-19 Incidence Using A Geographic Information System

Abstract

Background : The outbreak of the new coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, began in Wuhan, China, in January 2020, becoming a sudden public health crisis and a severe threat to lives in most parts of the world. This study aimed to use a Geographic Information System (GIS) to study the spatial distribution of COVID-19 incidence in Ho Chi Minh city. Methods: the histogram was first used to study the distribution of the COVID-19 cases and COVID-19 incidence. A GIS was then employed to map the spatial distribution of the COVID-19 cases and COVID-19 incidence. Finally, the study results were discussed and concluded. Results: a large proportion of COVID-19 infections mainly appeared in districts in the eastern region, then followed by the western districts of the city, while the average rate of infections was concentrated in districts near the city center. Low rates of COVID-19 infection were detected in the northern and southern districts of the city and some central districts of the city. Conclusions: the study results indicated the effectiveness of a GIS for mapping COVID-19 incidence. Findings in this study provide an insight into the spatial distribution of infectious diseases and make great contributions to the control of the COVID-19 pandemic.