Maps are great communication tools, and can lead to new insights especially to display results of surveillance, epidemiological surveys or to strategize and plan health interventions in the field.

The CaribVET GIS bulletins were developed within the framework of the EU/7thFP/Regpot Epigenesis project and they specifically address the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for animal health surveillance. in 2015-2016, 9 thematic bulletins were distributed on a bi-monthly basis to the members of CaribVET and any person interested in learning more about geographical data.

The objective is to promote GIS and encourage the use of geographical data in daily activities of the veterinary services and Ministries of Agriculture accross the Caribbean region.Beginners or persons with advanced level in GIS will  find relevant information to improve or refresh their skills and knowledge on GIS. We hope that the GIS bulletin and other tools and materials will be applied and used dayly and contribute to help countries to meet the international standards and improve animal and veterinary public health in the region.

Each bulletin is dedicated to one aspect of GIS. The main ideas, concepts and terminology is explained and is accompanied by a few examples and exercises.Even if there are complex algorithms behind GIS softwares, it is not necessary to be keen on applied mathematics to get started.GIS is an applied science and the best way of learning it is to start and experiment. The most important part of these bulletins is the hands-on part. The only thing needed is a computer with an internet connection.