Long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) have played an important role in the remarkable success in reducing malaria burden over the past decade. They are a core prevention tool, and widely used by people at risk of malaria. Though LLIN is treated with safe, residual insecticide its efficacy and durability wane over the years when washed in water and may have an impact on preventing malaria.
Though the National Malaria Control Program (NMCP) of Bangladesh intensified its malaria control program in 2007, the number of cases of malaria had increased in high endemic areas of the Chittagong Hill Tracts. NMCP used a multipronged strategy which included diagnosis, treatment and distribution of LLIN targeting 100% coverage in Khagrachari, Banbardan, Rangmati, Cox’s Bazaar and Chittagong districts.
An assessment study was conducted by the Bangladesh government in 2014 to assess the efficacy and durability of LLINs and later WHO provided support to this initative for protocol development. The NMCP collected LLIN samples from the field and WHO Bangladesh sent them to the Faculty of Agriculture at Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand for bioassay test. The results in the report, when available, are expected to provide guidance on the procurement, distribution, and length of use of LLIN which will be incorporated in the national malaria strategic plan.