Mosquito Netting Criteria
For effective protection, mosquito nets should fulfill the following:
Mesh size:
Mosquito nets
for use in the tropics should have meshes large enough for air
circulation but as small as possible to keep out mosquitoes.
A mesh size of 1.2 mm x 1.2 mm is common and recommended. The
mosquito net mesh size recommended for effective malaria protection
is of 120-200 mesh/square inch. The small sand fly, however,
which also transmits diseases to humans, can pass through this
mesh size, and can only be avoided with a small-meshed mosquito
net (0.6mm x 0.6 mm), which in addition should be impregnated
with insecticide.
Material:
Mosquito nets of polyester or polyamide are usually
lightweight, long-lasting nets, and
are available in different mesh sizes
and thread thickness. On the other
hand, cotton is susceptible to dampness,
and certainly weighs more in the rucksack
than a synthetic net. During a longer
stay in the tropics with a permanent
sleeping site, a cotton net would
be the better alternative, due to
the more pleasant sleeping climate
offered by a natural material, which
can also be sprinkled with water on
hot nights for agreeable coolness
of the air in circulation.
Shape:
Basically, the mosquito net should be wide enough to cover the
person sleeping without touching the body. If there is contact
between the skin and the net, chances are that mosquitoes will
find these surfaces and have a meal. Rectangular mosquito nets
offer the roomiest protection around a sleeping person, whereas
the slanted sides of tent-shaped or pyramidal nets allow for
less space. At any rate, the mosquito net should be tucked under
the mattress. Hooks, screws, thumbtacks, safety pins and string
can be used to attach the net above the bed. Blankets, pillows
etc. can be used to build a wall around the body and so avoid
body contact with the mosquito net despite slanted sides. See
more details on mosquito
net bed canopy.
Optical
inspection of mosquito nets
and the importance of insecticide
impregnation. For effective protection, mosquito nets should fulfill the following:
Optical inspection:
Inspect the mesh size and intactness of your mosquito net. Only an intact mosquito
net with a suitable mesh size, adequate fastening and spacious
sleeping room can offer reliable protection against mosquito
bites.
Insecticide impregnation:
One can always spray a mosquito net with an insecticide but it is more efficient
to purchase one that has already been impregnated with a high
quality insecticide such as Permethrin.
Usually 350-500 mg. per squared meter is a good amount and are
pre-treated at the mosquito netting manufacturing plant. There
are many advantages to using an impregnated mosquito net not
the least of which is that it continues to offer some protection
even if your mosquito netting becomes ripped or torn.
|
