Mosquito nets are an inexpensive and proven method for protecting their occupants from diseases--most notably yellow fever and malaria--spread by mosquitoes and other disease-carrying insects.
History
Mosquito nets have been used for thousands of years. The first widespread of use of mosquito nets in the Americas occurred in the early 1900s, when Ronald Ross and William Crawford provided workers on the Panama Canal with mosquito nets to combat malaria and yellow fever.
Function
Mosquito nets protect their occupants from mosquitoes and other disease-carrying, flying pests by creating a breathable barrier between the mosquito net dweller and the pests.
Mesh Sizes and Treatments
Mosquito net mesh sizes vary, and some may include a treatment of permethrin, a natural insecticide. Smaller mesh sizes eliminate the threat of pest intrusion but limit air circulation. Larger, more breathable holes may allow some smaller pests in.
Volume
Larger mosquito nets consume more space than smaller ones and aren't as easy to set up, but larger nets add to the occupant's comfort by allowing more air to filter through and circulate.
Fabric
The most common fabrics used in mosquito netting are nylon and polyester--they provide durability and are highly weather resistant. Less commonly used cotton nets succumb to moisture more than synthetic nets, but are valued for their UV protection.
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