This tool is called off! Cast , it takes advantage of Google cloud's geospatial and data analysis technology and Johnson's experience in controlling mosquitoes carrying a large number of diseases. The tool displays the predicted size of mosquito populations in a specific area based on postal codes.
The search giant said, off! Cast is the first technology platform to provide mosquito prediction to the public. The service will initially be limited to the United States, but will be extended to Brazil and Mexico in the near future. Maude Meier, an entomologist at Johnson, said in a press release that the combination of science and technology will help prevent insect borne diseases.
Google's earth engine will input billions of points of weather data into an algorithm jointly developed with Johnson Institute of Insect Science and family health and climate engine to estimate the number of mosquitoes. These data are then given to a model to create a color coded seven day forecast. (the off! Cast website is owned and operated by Johnson Corporation, which uses it to promote off brand mosquito repellent products.)
Data show that about 700 million people worldwide are infected with various diseases such as Zika, malaria, dengue fever and yellow fever every year, resulting in more than 1 million deaths. Scientists say global warming may contribute to the explosive growth of mosquito populations. Both Google and Johnson said that preventive data models are the best way to shape human behavior to avoid the spread of infection.