NOMHAD - Non-Mesh Impregnated Mosquito Nets for Malaria Control in Hard-to-Reach Populations
Project Abstract
Malaria is a major cause of illness and death in South Sudan, particularly among nomadic and displaced populations who are highly exposed and poorly served by standard vector control tools. PermaNet® Dumuria is a non-mesh insecticide-treated polyester net developed for outdoor and mobile use, with promising durability and acceptability in similar settings. However, robust evidence is needed on its epidemiological effectiveness, durability, acceptability, and cost to inform WHO and humanitarian malaria guidance for mobile and crisis-affected populations.
This mixed-methods observational and implementation research study evaluates PermaNet® Dumuria among the Murle pastoralist community in Maruwa, South Sudan, with an additional acceptability assessment among Maasai pastoralists in Tanzania. The primary objective is to determine whether use of Dumuria reduces the odds of clinical malaria among children aged 6 months to 14 years over a two-year period. Secondary objectives include characterising local malaria vectors, monitoring net survivorship and insecticidal performance, assessing community acceptability ownership and use, documenting distribution costs, and examining mobility patterns and their association with malaria risk.
The project is implemented by a consortium of six institutions in close collaboration with the South Sudan National Malaria Control Programme. Swiss TPH coordinates the study, BRIDGE Netwok leads field implementation in South Sudan with support from MSF-OCB. KCMUCo and LSHTM provide laboratory, epidemiological, and scientific support and the University of Ottawa supports spatial analysis.
