Mosquito nets are the best way to stop malaria. Most nets are treated with insecticide (mosquito poison). But in many places, mosquitoes have become stronger. The old poison does not kill them as well.
The answer: nets with two insecticides
New nets have two kinds of insecticide. If a mosquito is not killed by one, the other can kill it.
WHO now recommends these new nets in places where mosquitoes are strong. In studies, they cut malaria in children by about half compared with old nets.
What about home treatment?
In the past, people dipped their nets in chemicals at home every year. This is no longer needed. Today’s nets are made with the insecticide already inside. They last about 3 years.
How to make your net last
- Wash it gently, only every few months, with plain soap.
- Dry it in the shade, not the sun.
- Sew up holes quickly.
- Keep using an old net until you get a new one. A net with small holes is better than no net.
Watch: Episode 18, Mosquito Nets → See the free series
Sources: WHO malaria guidelines (vector control); WHO World Malaria Report 2025
