What should you know about a malaria net?

A mosquito net hangs around a bed or sleeping space and separates skin from mosquitoes while you sleep. It works best when it is intact, large enough to tuck securely, and free from gaps that insects can use. Some nets are treated to repel or kill mosquitoes; follow the product instructions for safe use and care.

A net cannot protect you while you are walking outdoors, and it does not treat malaria after infection. Fever, chills, sweating, headache, tiredness, or muscle aches after travel still need medical attention, even when you slept under a net.

Check the net before sleeping for tears, loose edges, and openings. Tuck it beneath the mattress or sleeping surface where appropriate, keep skin away from the mesh, and avoid leaving an opening at the entrance. Combine the net with repellent and clothing that covers exposed skin. Before travel, ask a travel health consultation service about destination-specific malaria prophylaxis.

Contact a clinician promptly for fever during or after travel to a malaria area. Seek urgent help for confusion, fainting, breathing difficulty, severe weakness, repeated vomiting, or inability to drink. Explain your destinations and prevention measures, including net use. A blood test may be needed to investigate malaria; do not wait for a visible bite.

Is this net suitable for my sleeping space? Does it need special care or replacement? Should I also use malaria prophylaxis, repellent, or other precautions for my destination?