Application of geographic information system in public health

Geographic information system (GIS) is a comprehensive subject,and has been widely used in different fields with the features of massive spatial data management and result visualization.In recent years,GIS has been applied in epidemiological research,disease surveillance,public health emergency preparedness and response,environmental health research and decision-making,showing good prospects of application.In this article,the application of GIS in public health is reviewed. Key words: Geographic information systems;  Public health;  Disease control