Malaria - use of bednets
Protect children in malaria-endemic areas, by ensuring that they sleep under insecticide-treated bednets.
Use of insecticide-treated bednets has been associated with a reduction in child mortality (by 17%) and malaria morbidity (by 48% in stable malaria areas), according to “Family and community practices that promote child survival, growth and development – A review of the evidence”.
The effect of the insecticide adds to that of the physical barrier of the bednet. Long-lasting insecticidal nets—where the insecticide is ingrained in the bednet fibres or coated around them— are currently recommended by WHO. They provide personal protection and must retain efficacy for at least 3 years under field conditions and resist to repeated (at least 20) washings. WHO’s position is that “long-lasting insecticidal nets should be considered a public good for populations living in malaria-endemic areas”.
Sleeping patterns of children, vector biting patterns and bednet use patterns throughout the year affect the impact of insecticide-treated bednets.
Related links:
Insecticide-treated mosquito nets: a position statement
