Application of Geographic Information Systems in Mapping Lymphatic Filariasis Transmission Zones in Niger State, North Central Nigeria

Geographic information system technology offers powerful tools for spatially characterising neglected tropical disease transmission, enabling targeted resource allocation and intervention planning in resource-constrained health systems. This study applies GIS mapping to delineate lymphatic filariasis transmission zones in Niger State, North Central Nigeria. A cross-sectional parasitological survey integrated with spatial analysis was conducted across 30 sentinel communities in Lavun, Borgu, and Mokwa Local Government Areas. Microfilaria detection was performed using the nocturnal thick blood film technique on 50 adults per community, and GPS coordinates of each community were recorded. Immunochromatographic card test for Wuchereria bancrofti circulating filarial antigen was administered concurrently. Environmental variables including vegetation density, proximity to breeding water bodies, elevation, and land use were extracted from satellite imagery and overlaid with prevalence data using ArcGIS. Literature from 2020 to 2024 confirms GIS as a validated approach for NTD programme mapping and reporting to the WHO, yet its uptake within Nigerian state NTD programmes remains limited. This study produces georeferenced prevalence maps and identifies environmental predictors of transmission intensity, providing programme planners with decision-support tools. Findings will be submitted to the Niger State Ministry of Health NTD Unit and the Federal Ministry of Health for incorporation into the national LF control database. Keywords: geographic information systems, lymphatic filariasis, transmission mapping, Niger State, spatial analysis.