This brief focuses on the following points: More than one million lives could be saved annually if insecticide-treated bednets (ITNs) were routinely used by the populations at greatest risk of malaria. Several models for delivery of ITNs have been developed, and the choice among them depends on how capable the commercial sector is to provide bednets. A new technology for dipping nets may soon turn people's conventional bednets into long-lasting bednets.

This brief discusses the following points: Prompt disease recognition followed without delay by high-quality treatment of malaria shortens the duration of illness, reduces complications, and saves lives. Programs should help home-based caregivers make key decisions and take action to ensure proper treatment. Artemisinin-based combination therapy should be considered as the first-line treatment for malaria.

This brief discusses the following key points: Fetal loss, premature delivery, and death can be avoided through prompt disease recognition followed without delay by high-quality treatment of malaria. Pregnant women should sleep under an insecticide-treated bednet. Intermittent preventive treatment has a beneficial impact on maternal and infant health.