Background & objectives: Universal coverage of population with long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) living in endemic areas inhabited by ethnic tribal communities or in difficult to reach areas was found effective for disease control where other interventions such as indoor residual spraying have limited success because of operational issues. Evaluation of different LLINs with varied insecticides and fabrics are being evaluated to meet the demand of new products. This study was undertaken on two brands of LLINs, DuraNet© and Interceptor® that varied in fabric and manufacturing technologies to assess the usability in field conditions for atleast three years.
Methods: In large-scale field trials DuraNet©, alpha cypermethrin incorporated polyethylene net, was evaluated in Odisha state while, Interceptor® net, alpha cypermethrin coated polyester net was evaluated in Chhattisgarh and Gujarat states for a period of three years following WHO guidelines. Durability, usage pattern and washing behavior were monitored through periodic surveys and physical examination of nets.
Results: Survivorship of both the nets was 84-100% and every night usage rate was >62% in all seasons. Washing frequency was largely within the prescribed limits. The proportion of DuraNet© with holes was 26.7% in year one 74% in year three. In Gujarat, proportion of Interceptor® nets with holes at six months was 33.3% increased to 87% in year three and in Chhattisgarh, 6.7% after six months to 93.3% after three years of use respectively.
Interpretation & conclusion: Both the nets revealed a useful life of three years under the field condition.
Keywords: DuraNet©; Interceptor®; Long-lasting insecticidal nets; alpha cypermethrin; durability; polyester; polyethylene; vector control.