Malaria is one of the most preventable infectious diseases in Nigeria.
However, with consistent action and the right knowledge, families and communities can dramatically reduce transmission.
Below are 10 proven, expert-backed methods to keep mosquitoes and malaria in check.
1. Sleep Under Long-Lasting Insecticide-Treated Nets (LLINs)
LLINs remain one of the most effective tools against malaria. They repel mosquitoes, kill those that land on the net, and offer all-night protection. Everyone, especially children, pregnant women, and the elderly, should sleep under one every night.
2. Eliminate Stagnant Water Around Your Home
Mosquitoes breed in still water.
Common sources of such water include:
- Buckets and drums left uncovered
- Flower pots
- Gutters
- Tires
- Empty cans
Clearing or covering these weekly can drastically reduce mosquito populations.
3. Use Indoor Residual Insecticide Sprays (IRIS)
Spraying long-lasting insecticides on indoor walls kills mosquitoes that rest inside homes.
This is especially useful during rainy seasons when mosquitoes multiply quickly.
4. Install Window and Door Screens
Simple mesh screens can block mosquitoes from entering your home. Repair torn screens immediately to maintain maximum protection.
5. Wear Protective Clothing in the Evenings
Mosquitoes bite most actively between 6 PM and 6 AM.
Wearing long sleeves, trousers, and socks during this period adds an extra layer of protection.
6. Use Mosquito Repellents Safely
WHO-approved repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535 are effective when applied correctly.
For infants and pregnant women, healthcare workers should advise on safe options.
7. Support Community Clean-Up Campaigns
Community-level action is powerful:
- Clearing bushes
- Dredging clogged drainage systems
- Organizing environmental sanitation days
Collective efforts reduce mosquito breeding sites at scale.
8. Promote Early Testing and Treatment
A core prevention principle is: Test early, treat early.
When sick individuals receive rapid testing and proper treatment, they stop serving as a source for mosquito transmission.
For confirmed uncomplicated malaria, treatment should be done using medication like Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy (ACT) – specifically Artemether/Lumefantrine – is the WHO-recommended first-line treatment for malaria.
AGATEM is recommended as an effective treatment Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy (ACT) licensed by NAFDAC and sold in different pharmacies around the country.
9. Educate Family and Neighbours
Prevention works best when everyone participates.
Families, pharmacists, and health workers should help people understand:
- How malaria spreads
- How to use nets and repellents
- Why completing treatment matters
Education reduces myths and increases consistent protection.
10. Protect Pregnant Women and Children Aggressively
These two groups are most vulnerable.
Pregnant women should receive intermittent preventive treatment (IPTp) as recommended by health professionals, while children should be tested and treated immediately at the first sign of fever.
Preventing malaria is a shared responsibility. By combining personal protective measures with community-level action, Nigeria can drastically reduce the burden of malaria across homes, schools, workplaces, and markets.
Every cleared gutter, every treated net, and every early diagnosis saves lives.
Disclaimer: This article is for public health education only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.