Characteristics of Housing in a Rural Community: A Case Study of Chanso Village in Plateau State, Nigeria

Housing is an important determinant of health and has been linked to certain disease conditions. This study examined the characteristics of housing in a rural community and its implications for health. It was a cross-sectional study in which the community was purposively selected. Total population sampling was applied and data was obtained with the use of a checklist. A total of 199 household data were analysed with the use of Epi-Info 3.5.1 software. Most (80 %) of the houses were made of mud bricks, 63 % were found to be in good condition though mould was detected in 4 % of the walls of the houses. Sanitary amenities identified in the community included, wells and pit latrines and waste disposal was mostly by open dumping. Most environments were found to be filthy (85 %) with a resultant finding of several types of vectors and vermin. Interventions are require in this community to improve basic sanitation.