Addressing the Unaddressed: Challenges in Geospatial Mapping of Typhoid Fever Cases in Ghana

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Geospatial mapping has been a valuable tool in public health interventions, yet its application in resource-limited settings remains challenging. This study aimed to map cases of typhoid fever intestinal perforations in northeastern Ghana and identify potential case clusters, while assessing the feasibility of conducting such analysis in a resource-limited setting. METHODS We conducted a retrospective analysis of 84 cases treated at a regional referral hospital from September 2023 to January 2024, and patient demographics and hometown locations were collected and mapped. When necessary, focused interviews with hospital staff and community members were conducted to approximate village locations. RESULTS Of the 84 cases, 88% (74 cases) were successfully mapped to the town or village level. However, precise neighborhood mapping was not possible due to the lack of standardized addressing systems. No significant disease clusters were identified, likely due to the small sample size and low population density. The study revealed specific challenges in conducting geospatial analysis in this setting, including duplicate village names, reliance on unpaved roads, and scarcity of detailed mapping systems. CONCLUSIONS While geospatial mapping of typhoid fever cases was largely successful at the town/village level, significant challenges remain in conducting precise analyses in resource-limited settings. This study emphasizes the need for improved mapping technologies, standardized addressing systems, and basic infrastructure enhancements to increase the effectiveness of public health interventions in similar settings worldwide.