Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 27, 2026
09:23
Maintaining Aedes aegypti Mosquitoes Infected with Wolbachia
Published on: August 14, 2017
14.1K
Progress in mosquito net coverage in Papua New Guinea
Manuel W Hetzel1, Adnan A K Choudhury, Justin Pulford
1Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, PO Box 60, EHP 441 Goroka, Papua New Guinea. manuel.hetzel@unibas.ch.
Malaria Journal
|June 26, 2014
Summary
Repeated free distribution of long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) in Papua New Guinea significantly increased ownership and use. However, targeted efforts are needed to improve access in some regions and encourage consistent use where nets are available.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Vector-Borne Disease Control
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Papua New Guinea (PNG) has implemented nationwide free long-lasting insecticidal net (LLIN) distribution campaigns since 2004.
- Initial LLIN use in 2009 was low (32.5%) due to insufficient net availability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate changes in mosquito net ownership and usage following continued free LLIN distribution across PNG.
- To identify factors influencing LLIN ownership and use.
Main Methods:
- A country-wide household survey conducted in 2010/11, randomly sampling 5 villages per province and 30 households per village.
- Structured questionnaires administered to household heads to collect data on net ownership, use, and household characteristics.
- Application of revised ownership and access indicators to assess coverage gaps.
Main Results:
- LLIN ownership increased to 81.8% of households, with sufficient nets for all members found in 41.3%.
- Overall LLIN access rose to 61.4%, and usage to 48.3%, with significant increases in children under five (58.2%).
- Recent LLIN distribution was a key factor for ownership, while residents were more likely to use nets than guests.
Conclusions:
- Repeated LLIN distribution campaigns have successfully boosted net ownership and use in PNG, with notable regional variations.
- Additional net distribution is needed in low-access areas; promoting consistent use is crucial in high-access areas with low utilization.
- Complementary vector control strategies should be considered alongside LLIN distribution.
