Economic burden of malaria infection on households: A survey of various households in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

Purpose: This study is aimed at evaluating the economic burden of malaria treatment among households in Port Harcourt, Rivers State Nigeria. Methodology: A correlation survey research design was adopted for this study and a sample size of 338 was determined from a target population of 2,200 using Yamane formula. Findings: There are significant positive relationships between economic burden (direct and indirect costs) of treating malaria infection and the disposable income as well as high rate of poverty of the sampled households in Rivers State, Nigeria. Recommendations: The study identifies and recommends the need for government to intensify efforts in malaria elimination through effective eradication programme, universal health coverage, national health insurance scheme and free malaria treatment. In addition, government is called upon to strengthen the health system in Nigeria and provide effective leadership as avenue to mitigate the huge economic burden of malaria treatment in the country. Originality/value: This study contributes to malarial infection research by providing empirical evidences of the relationships that exist between the direct and the indirect costs of treating the disease and its effects on the disposable income and the living standard of the people.