Malaria Prevention: Practical Steps for Homes and Communities

Malaria Prevention: Practical Steps for Homes and Communities

Malaria prevention works best when households and communities combine several actions consistently.

A community malaria prevention scene with a bed net and mosquito control reminders

Household actions

• Sleep under treated mosquito nets, especially children and pregnant people.
• Repair torn nets and hang them correctly.
• Clear stagnant water around the home where mosquitoes breed.
• Use screens or close doors and windows in the evening where possible.

Do not ignore fever

Fever, chills, headache, vomiting, body aches, or weakness can be malaria or another serious infection. Testing helps guide the right treatment.

Treatment safety

Do not share leftover medicines or stop prescribed antimalarials early unless a clinician advises. Incorrect treatment can increase complications and resistance.

Pregnancy, young children, severe weakness, confusion, difficulty breathing, repeated vomiting, or convulsions require urgent care.