Health 18 March 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Survey Reveals 16% of Ugandans Skip Mosquito Nets Amid Malaria Concerns
A recent survey indicates that 16% of Ugandans are not using insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), heightening malaria risks despite high ownership rates. The 2025 Uganda Malaria Indicator Survey highlights regional gaps in usage, particularly in areas like Tooro. Source: https://observer.ug/news/over-16-of-ugandans-still-not-sleeping-under-mosquito-nets-survey
A new survey shows that over 16% of Ugandans do not sleep under insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), fueling worries among health experts about ongoing malaria exposure.
The 2025 Uganda Malaria Indicator Survey (UMIS), carried out from November 29, 2024, to February 3, 2025, gathered data from 44,191 individuals in 9,458 households. It examined malaria prevention habits, treatment approaches, and key health indicators nationwide.
Notable shifts include a decline in rural population from 76% in the 2018-19 survey to 62%, linked to the establishment of new cities and town councils.
ITNs are hailed as a top malaria defense, repelling and killing mosquitoes to curb bites and parasite transmission. High ITN coverage protects both individuals and communities by reducing mosquito numbers, according to the report.
Yet challenges remain: 84% of households have at least one ITN, and 87% possess any mosquito net. Usage lags, especially in Tooro, where access stands at 68% but only 55% use them—a 13-point gap.
Source: The Observer (Uganda)