Malaria is a dangerous and grave disease that will lead to the death of human beings. However, mosquitoes that belong to Anopheles are responsible for the malaria is endemic.
One of the most effective preventative measures is the use of insect repellents that help prevent mosquitoes from biting on human skin. This text will show how insect repellents can be effectively used in the prevention of malaria.
1. Understanding Malaria and Mosquito Behavior
How Malaria is Transmitted
- Vector: malaria is a human disease caused by parasites of the genus Plasmodium and spread by the bites of infected females of the mosquito genus Anopheles.
- Time of Transmission Peaks: In many places, vectors (Anopheles mosquitoes) are most abundant and actively feeding at dusk and dawn. Avoid all mosquito bites when these vectors are most prevalent.
Mosquito Behavior
- Breeding Sites: Stagnant water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes; removing or treating these breeding sites will decrease mosquito populations.
- Feeding patterns: Anopheles must be urged to sleep to use protective clothing and repellents.
2. Types of Insect Repellents
DEET (N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide)
- Effectiveness: Oneitous and effective insect repellent is DEET, and it works by disrupting the mosquito’s ability to sense keep humans.
- Concentration: repellents with DEET come in a variety of concentrations, ranging from 5 percent to 100 percent. For longer outdoor activities, you should choose a higher concentration between 20-30 percent.
Picaridin (Icaridin)
- Picaridin is a newer option that’s gaining in popularity and is pretty much equal to DEET in effectiveness (and less odorous). Great for covering big areas and long-lasting, it is much less irritating to the skin.
- Concentration: Picaridin repellents are typically available in concentrations ranging from 5% to 20%.
Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE) and PMD
Efficacy: OLE and one of its synthetic derivatives, PMD (p-menthane-3,8-diol), work: OLE is a natural ingredient found in the leaves of the lemon eucalyptus tree, and is as effective as DEET, although it is said to be not quite as potent.
Concentration: Products containing OLE should have a concentration of 30% to be effective.
IR3535
- Effectiveness: This repellent contains IR3535, which is considered to be safe and effective and approved for use in some countries. This repellent is suitable for those who have sensitive skin.
- Concentration: Commonly found in concentrations of 10% to 20%.
3. How to Use Insect Repellents Effectively
Application Guidelines
- Read Labels: Always follow the directions on the repellent label.
- Apply to Skin and Clothing: Use as directed to apply repellents to exposed skin and clothing. Take care to avoid the eyes and mouth and wash hands thoroughly after application and removal of repellents containing alcohol. Some repellents can be used on clothing and gear for additional protection.
- Reapply As Needed: Apply repellents according to the label instructions; reapply if sweating or after swimming.
Duration of Protection
- Know Duration: Not all repellents last the same amount of time. DEET-based repellents can last up to 8 hours while Picaridin and OLE can last up to 12 hours.
- Consider Activities: For prolonged outdoor activities or in high-mosquito-density areas, choose a repellent with a longer duration or reapply as needed.
Special Considerations
- Children and Pregnant Women: If possible, use repellents approved for children and pregnant women. DEET and Picaridin generally have a good safety profile when used according to directions.
- Sensitivity: Do you have sensitive skin or allergies? If so, be sure to test a small area of skin before using the repellent or try a product developed specifically for sensitive skin.
4. Complementary Malaria Prevention Measures
Use of Mosquito Nets
Bed Nets: Sleep under insecticide-treated bed nets, especially at night when many of the mosquito add one more layer of bites.
Indoor Insecticides
Inlays: Treat the home with indoor insecticides with pyrethroids to kill mosquitoes indoors Mosquitoes living indoors can be eliminated by spraying insects such as permethrin, inside the home
Environmental Control
Red Sites: Remove stagnant water around the site. For example,
Protective Clothing
Wear Protect outdoors, long-sleeved sh and socks offer the greatest protection by reducing exposed skin. Permethrin-treated clothing offers additional protection.
5. Choosing the Right Repellent
Personal Preferences
Scent and Feel: Pick the repellent you like best: some products have less intense odors or no scent at all, which might be a plus for daily use.
Local Recommendations
Local Guidelines: Check for any local guidelines regarding malarial prophylaxis and insect repellent. In areas with high malaria risk, regional or local health authorities can post guidelines or declare their preferred prophylaxis or insect repellent.
6. Safety and Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Skin Irritation: Some people experience skin irritation or allergic reactions. If you get irritated, stop and consult with a healthcare provider.
- Eyes: Not to be placed in eyes. If splashed in the eyes, flush the eyes with large amounts of water.
Safe Storage
Storage: Store insect repellents in a cool, dry location away from children. Do not use expired products.
The use of insect repellents plays a key role in malaria prevention. When used properly combined with other prevention measures like mosquito nets and environmental control, these products help reduce the risk of malaria. Knowing what type of repellent to use, those that work best, and how to apply them as well as other complementary prevention strategies contribute to better health protection.
