People of Likoma Island have been warned against drying fish on bednets because the insecticide the nets are treated with is harmful when swallowed.

The island’s Malaria Control Programme coordinator Stephano Kaunda gave the warning on Tuesday during a campaign held together with the Canadian Physician for Aid and Relief (CPAR) in the northern Malawi district.

Kaunda said the insecticide gets removed when the net is soaked; hence, can contaminate the fish as they dry.

Most Likoma fishermen dry silver fish on mosquito nets, arguing that it is more effective than drying on mats.

Said Kaunda: “The aim of the meeting was to give the islanders a forum for sharing knowledge on the change of treatment of malaria. but we have also noted with concern that people dry fish on the treated mosquito nets, meaning they are ignorant of the hazardous chemical found in them.” 

CPAR project officer Allan Kumwenda advised women to rush to hospital when they experience malaria symptoms.

Group Village Head Chalunda hailed Malaria Control Programme in Likoma for the awareness campaign, saying most of her subjects were ignorant of the dangers of drying fish on mosquito nets.

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