Abstract

BackgroundLong-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) are a mainstay of malaria prevention in Africa. More LLINs are available now than in any time previously due to increases in funding for malaria control. LLINs are expected to last three to five years before they need to be replaced. Reports of nets lasting less than three years are frequent in Zambia, which, if true, will increase the number of LLINs needed to maintain universal coverage.MethodsThis study collected nets distributed during mass distribution campaigns. One net was collected from each participating home in 12 districts in 2010 and all nets were examined for holes. One household member was surveyed about net use and care.ResultsThe study collected 713 polyester nets with a median age of 31 months (range 27–44 months, interquartile (IQR) range: 29–36 months), median number of holes was 17 (IQR: 5–33), and median total hole size was 88.3 sq cm (IQR: 14.5-360.4). The median total number of holes did differ by age of the net, from 27–44 months, but not in a linear fashion. The difference in the number of holes in the newest and oldest nets was not statistically significant. The mean deltamethrin level for all nets was 23 mg/sq m (≥8 mg/sq m is considered effective). There was a larger total hole area in the lower half of the nets (repeat measures ANOVA, F = 228.43, df = 2, p < 0.0001) compared to the upper half and roof of the net. Only 8.7 % of nets had evidence of repairs.ConclusionsAt 27 − 30 months, LLINs already had a large total hole surface area that was equivalent to the oldest nets observed. Nets were often tucked under reed mats which may explain the finding that the largest hole area was found in the lower half of the net. Studies need to be conducted prospectively to determine when physical deterioration occurs and why nets are discarded. Re-enforcing the lower half of the sides of LLINs may help decrease holes.

Highlights

  • Long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) are a mainstay of malaria prevention in Africa

  • Craig et al Malaria Journal (2015) 14:239 budgeted for LLINs, it is essential that the true life expectancy of LLINs in use by families in endemic countries is known in order to better quantify the optimal timing and quantities needed for LLIN replacement and to ensure that the population is protected by effective nets

  • The districts chosen within these Provinces were districts where the National Malaria Control Center (NMCC) or a partnering non-governmental organization (NGO) had distributed PermaNet® 2.0 LLINs between 2007 and 2008 via mass distribution campaigns

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Summary

Introduction

Long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) are a mainstay of malaria prevention in Africa. LLINs are expected to last three to five years before they need to be replaced. Reports of nets lasting less than three years are frequent in Zambia, which, if true, will increase the number of LLINs needed to maintain universal coverage. Long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) are highly effective, essential components of worldwide efforts to control malaria [1,2,3,4,5,6]. Craig et al Malaria Journal (2015) 14:239 budgeted for LLINs, it is essential that the true life expectancy of LLINs in use by families in endemic countries is known in order to better quantify the optimal timing and quantities needed for LLIN replacement and to ensure that the population is protected by effective nets. Allan et al used a mean total net hole size of ≥1000 sq cm as the definition of an unserviceable net [14]

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