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Satellite-based assessment of the influence of surface water dynamics on infectious disease burden

In developing countries, seasonal flooding during the monsoon period may elevate the risk of waterborne and water-related infectious diseases by increasing population exposure to contaminated water. However, areas covered by surface water, including floodwater, fluctuate rapidly over short timeframes and is spatially heterogeneous, making it difficult to characterize through field observations or conventional statistical approaches alone. Recent advances in remote sensing technology have made it possible to continuously monitor surface water dynamics at broad spatial scales; nevertheless, studies that integrate satellite-derived surface water indicators with infectious disease data at consistent temporal and spatial resolutions remain limited. Against this background, the present study sought to quantify the impact of surface water extent on reported case counts by integrating satellite-based surface water indicators with infectious disease surveillance data, with the aim of generating novel insights for infectious disease monitoring.