Volunteer Geographic Information mapping of Ebola Virus With Mobile GIS using OpenStreetMap

This article examines an application of Volunteer Geographic Information (VGI) with the aid of mobile or cell phones that was implemented for mapping the spread of the Ebola virus utilizing OpenStreetMap (OSM) as a collaborative platform. VGI is a technique that engages a localcommunity to assist in data collection during the early stages of crisis such as an outbreak of a highly contagious deadly virus. This allows for immediate, real-time mapping of affected areasproviding the opportunity for early intervention, which can avoid further spread of the contaminant. In addition, it supports optimal resource allocation, which can be limited when dealing with such crises, such as when the outbreak first occurs as the extent of the outcome is yet to be determined.Also discussed are various issues with this technique including the reliability and validity of the data collected, limitations experienced when working in rural areas, and barriers related to the literacy and technical competence amongst volunteers. Despite these limitations there is great potential role when implementing VGI, mobile phones and mapping in terms of vastly improving the situational awareness during these outbreaks, and in turn, coordinatinginterventions by health providers. Recent applications of this technique during the COVID19 outbreak are provided. The integration of VGI, mobile GIS via cell phones, and open-source platforms such as OpenStreetMap provides an extremely low barrier, cost-effective, and solution for community-engaged public mapping in a health crisis.