Household and community-based approaches to malaria and cholera prevention: A narrative review with case studies from Uganda and Mozambique

Background Housing conditions play a fundamental role in infectious diseases transmission, particularly in endemic regions. Structural modifications to homes—such as screened windows and doors, sealed eaves, elevated flooring, and insecticide-treated barriers—are increasingly recognized as key strategies for reducing mosquito entry and, consequently, malaria risk. Similarly, improved latrine, proper waste disposal, and the possibility to handwash can help to reduce the spread of waterborne diseases such as cholera. However, their effectiveness and feasibility vary across geographical and socio-economic settings. This study examines the impact of housing-based interventions on malaria and cholera prevention through two case studies conducted in Uganda and Mozambique. Methods A literature review was conducted alongside case studies from Uganda and Mozambique, where housing interventions for endemic infectious diseases prevention have been implemented. Data were collected from scientific literature, local health reports, and field observations. Results The combination of multiple preventive measures at the community level, including both structural modifications to housing and changes in domestic behavior, holds great potential in combating various endemic diseases in low-income countries, such as malaria and cholera. These integrated strategies are generally low-cost, community-acceptable, and easily implementable, and can complement existing large-scale control programs. Conclusion House-based interventions represent a sustainable and complementary strategy for malaria and cholera control in endemic regions. However, their successful implementation depends on affordability, cultural adaptation, and integration with existing control programs. Future research should focus on scaling up these interventions and evaluating their long-term impact on vector- and water-borne diseases transmission in endemic and low-resource settings.