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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. To purchase high quality mosquito netting that fits all this criteria, click here.

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.

Click here to learn more about the optical inspection of mosquito nets and the importance of insecticide impregnation.


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