Interpreting disease maps requires an understanding of both the data and the context in which it is presented. Here are some key points to consider:
Scale and resolution: The scale of the map can affect how data is visualized. Higher resolution maps provide more detailed information. Legend and labels: Always refer to the legend to understand what different colors and symbols represent. Temporal context: Consider the time frame of the data being displayed. Is it showing current cases, historical data, or projections? Population density: Areas with higher population density might show higher disease prevalence due to more people living in closer proximity.