The ability of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technologies to capture spatial information, carry out exploratory spatial data analyses and produce cartograms can be used to support the management of aquatic animal diseases. GIS can be defined as a system of computer hardware, software, data and personnel organised to collect, store, update, manipulate, analyse and display geographically referenced information. All these components of the system mean that there is not a single, standardised GIS; systems can be assembled in a vast number of ways according to the type of usages, data availability, type of outputs, etc. Nevertheless, applying GIS technology in the veterinary field is not a trivial matter: it requires substantial background and skills in GIS discipline, and, most of all, specific knowledge of data collection, spatial data manipulation and data analysis related to veterinary usage.

The purpose of this GIS course is to train veterinarians, technicians in the veterinary service, university researchers on the use of GIS as a tool for mapping application in marine aquaculture in general, and in the management of marine aquatic animal diseases and food safety in particular. By the end of the course, participants will have a thorough understanding of the GIS basic features, data collection, and explorative spatial data analysis to be applied in marine aquaculture and in the prevention and control of marine aquatic animal diseases.

Get more information