The Use of Mosquito Nets Is Increasing in Papua New Guinea

The distribution of long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) has resulted in a significant increase in ownership and use of mosquito nets in Papua New Guinea. This is the conclusion of a study published in Malaria Journal that analyzed how the use of nets had changed following the implementation of several free distribution campaigns targeting local communities in recent years. The study was led by Ivo Mueller, a researcher at ISGlobal and the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute.

The Global Fund-supported National Malaria Control Programme of Papua New Guinea began its campaign to distribute free LLINs in 2004. In 2009, after the first campaign, just 32% of the population were using the nets, mainly due to a shortage of material. A new study, however, conducted in 2010 and 2011, has shown that both ownership and use if LLINs have increased.

Based on a survey conducted in 2000 homes in 77 villages, Ivo Mueller and his team found that 82% of homes now had at least one LLIN, compared with 65% in 2009.  They also found that 41% of homes had sufficient nets to cover all the members of the household (21% in 2009), and that use of nets among children under five years of age had increased from 39% in 2009 to 58%.

"Over the years, we have observed significant regional differences in net coverage and changes in use", explained Ivo Mueller. "Distribution has played a key role in the increased use of LLINs, but there are still areas where access to nets is still very limited. We need to distribute more nets in these areas, and encourage their use in other areas, where access is good."

Reference: Hetzel MW, Choudhury AA, Pulford J, Ura Y, Whittaker M, Siba PM, Mueller I. Progress in mosquito net coverage in Papua New Guinea. Malar J. 2014 Jun 24