If you are travelling in a malarial zone, a mosquito net is vital. Some estimates suggest Mosquitoes might be responsible for the deaths of as many as half of all human beings who have ever lived. Their danger comes from their ability to transfer diseases and illnesses between humans. Rift Valley fever, yellow fever, various forms of encephalities and malaria can be transmitted by mosquitoes. Even today, between 1 and 3 million people die each year from malaria. It is particularly tragic that most of these deaths are children; their young bodies unable to put up much of a defence against the onslaught.Traditional bell nets are hung above a bed or sleeping area, with nets draping below and splaying out to cover either single or double beds (you will need to ensure beforehand that your net matches your size of bed). Those mosuqito nets which require hanging (be it from a hook, wall or clothes lines) come with the necessary kit.
Obviously, if you’re out camping then there aren’t going to be that many beams from which to hang a net. Freestanding mosquito nets, as the name suggests, don’t need to be hung.
Of course, if you are off travelling then you may not always know where it is you are going to be staying. Compact mosquito nets are the answer. They are small enough to be carried in backpacks or hand luggage; the perfect choice for those off travelling the globe or trekking around Africa.
While a net is essential, the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends that anyone travelling in a malarial zone should take the extra precaution of having their impregnated with an insect repellent with a minimum strength of at least 50% DEET. Long Lasting Impregnation (LLI) kills mosquitoes as soon as they land on the net. “Long Lasting” means 2 years; after that you will need to reimpregnate the net, but this is easily done. You simply mix a solution of the anti-mosquito treatment to the right level of concentration and then draw the net through. Once dry, the net will be reimpregnated with LLI.
Mosquitoes bites are most likely to occure during the night, as this is when the insects are at their most active. If you are planning activities during the early morning or evening, it’s still important to keep yourself protected by mosquitoes. You may be up and moving, but that won’t stop them trying to bite. Head nets are made of a fine mesh that offers you clear vision while also keeping the mosquitoes off your face.
Of course, mosquitoes can be a pest even if they are not carrying dangerous diseases. For that reason, some mosquito nets are available in non LLI versions which are suitable for using in the UK and other non malarial areas.
When you’re travelling in sub-Saharan Africa, Asia or the Americas, it’s very important you take a mosquito net along. Whether you’re sleeping in a double bed in one hotel or hiking through the mountains, sleeping beneath the stars every night, there is a net suitable for your needs. Malaria is a dreadful problem, but there are simple steps you can take to avoid the worst of it.