Thomas Van Boeckel
I do maps of disease. In particular, my team produces maps of antimicrobial resistance in animals, with a focus on low- and middle-income countries. Maps are useful tools for at least two reasons: first maps help identify regions where disease surveillance needs to be ramped-up. In the case of antimicrobial resistance, this could consist in identifying where to install new laboratory capacities, or where to increase access to veterinary services. Having maps, helps make these decisions on an objective and quantitative basis. A second aspect in which maps are useful is as tools for communication: the raison d’être of my research is to guide policy. Maps are remarkably powerful tools to summarize, and communicate health challenges to policy makers.