Abstract:
Summary The Anti Malaria Campaign distributed approximately 300 000 long-lasting impregnated nets (LLINs) to malaria-endemic areas in Sri Lanka during the years 2005 to 2007. We
conducted a community-based cross-sectional survey among 2467 households distributed among
the three major ethnic groups of Sri Lanka to study the perceptions and practices with regard
to the use of LLINs in order to improve their use. In a majority of households the number of
LLINs available was not sufficient for the number of people, although there was a small percentage of households that had excess nets. The information and advice given at the time of
distribution regarding use of the nets differed amongst the three groups and was not consistent.
Dissemination of this knowledge within the family was not observed. A relationship between
knowledge regarding LLINs and reported practices on washing and drying of LLINs was found.
It was noted that net shape may influence net use, with cone shaped nets being more popular. Efforts to increase knowledge on LLINs using behaviour change communication techniques
would have more effectively contributed to achieve planned outcomes. Proper use of LLINs will
undoubtedly contribute to further reduction of malaria in Sri Lanka.
