Space-time clustering characteristics of dengue based on ecological, socio-economic and demographic factors in northern Sri Lanka.

The aim of the present study was to identify geographical areas and time periods of potential clusters of dengue cases based on ecological, socio-economic and demographic factors in northern Sri Lanka from January 2010 to December 2013. Remote sensing (RS) was used to develop an index comprising rainfall, humidity and temperature data. Remote sensing data gathered by the AVNIR-2 instrument onboard the ALOS satellite were used to detect urbanisation, and a digital land cover map was used to extract land cover information.

Antenatal care utilization in a conflict-affected district of Northern Sri Lanka.

Objectives: To assess utilization of antenatal care (ANC) and its determinants in a conflict-affected area in Northern Sri Lanka.

Design And Sample: A cross-sectional study was conducted among pregnant mothers who had completed 36 weeks of gestation, and were admitted or referred to 2 leading hospitals in Vavuniya district.

Measures: Data were collected from 392 mothers using an interviewer-administered questionnaire.