Risk-assessment of Vector-borne Diseases Based on Deep Learning and Remote Sensing

The malaria mosquito, Anopheles stephensi, will likely spread to cities in Africa with more than 126 mil. residents, posing a serious threat of large-scale malaria outbreaks. Low-quality housing is an important risk factor for diseases spread by mosquitos. However, the relation between urban contexts and such diseases remains understudied despite the importance of the built environment in driving transmission of malaria, dengue, and yellow fever. This project will investigate the relation between urban environments and the risk of diseases spread by mosquitos in Tanzania. The findings will be utilized in analysis of satellite imagery to identify high-risk areas and guide policy and interventions in addressing such diseases. The research will be integrated in teaching programs at the Danish applicant institutions. The project thus has potential to address important knowledge gaps, enhance urban resilience in Africa, and strengthen Danish biomedical data science capacities.

For more information about the project, please visit https://novonordiskfonden.dk/en/news/research-in-denmark-will-protect-cities-in-africa-against-malaria-mosquitoes/.