TOPIC: Use of GIS to gather data, map, and further analyze the spatial distribution of diseases. Cases in Chicago and Atlanta will be analyzed.

SPEAKER: Uriel Kitron, Professor and Chair, Environmental Studies, Emory University
[Bio available online at http://www.envs.emory.edu/faculty/kitron.html]

TIME: Tuesday, September 9, 2008 from 7:30AM - 9:00AM

PLACE: Center for Quality Growth and Regional Development (CQGRD) | Economic Development Building | Technology Square | Georgia Tech | 760 Spring Street | Suite 213 | Atlanta, GA | 30308-1028

Directions to CQGRD - http://www.cqgrd.gatech.edu/about/contact.php. MARTA's North Avenue station is just two blocks away. Automobile parking is available in the attached parking deck. Bicycle parking is available near the front door of the building, thanks to actions by the HPRG.

DETAILS: Urban environments provide fertile ground for the transmission of various diseases. A long-term study of the introduction and emergence of West Nile virus in Chicago has identified hot spots and characteristics of the urban environment that are conducive to WNV transmission. A study initiated this summer in Atlanta is focusing on CSO's and their contribution to mosquito vector distribution and potential transmission of West Nile virus. GIS and other spatial tools are used in these filed based eco-epidemiological studies.