ConclusionĪddressing the need for housing improvement is a critical component of malaria control efforts in southern Tanzania.

Study participants suggested several mechanisms of support to improve their homes, including government loans and subsidies. Community members invested significant efforts to improve their own homes against malaria and other dangers, but these efforts were often slow and delayed due to high costs and limited household incomes.

Of the 735 survey respondents who needed housing improvements, a majority needed window screening (91.1%), repairs of holes in walls (79.4%), door covers (41.6%), closing of eave spaces (31.2%) and better roofs (19.0%). ResultsĬompared to other methods for malaria control, housing improvement was among the best understood and most preferred by community members. Focus group discussions were conducted with key stakeholders to explore insights on the potential and challenges of housing improvement as a malaria intervention. A market survey was done to assess availability and cost of resources and services necessary for mosquito-proofing homes. Direct observations of 802 houses and surrounding environments were done to identify the actual needs and opportunities, and to validate the survey findings. A structured survey was administered to 1292 community members to assess need, perceptions, and opportunities for housing improvement for malaria control. MethodsĪ mixed-methods study was conducted in 19 villages across four district councils in southern Tanzania.

This study assessed the need, magnitude, and opportunities for housing improvement to control malaria in rural Tanzania. Despite evidence that well-constructed and mosquito-proofed houses can reduce malaria risk, housing improvement is rarely included in malaria control toolboxes. Malaria disproportionately affects low-income households in rural communities where poor housing is common.

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