Free mosquito nets distribution starts

 Health minister Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng addressing a press conference in Kampala.

Free mosquito nets are to be distributed countrywide effective November 2, 2016, the ministry of health has announced.

Addressing a news conference in Kampala on Tuesday, health minister Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng said the nets shall be distributed with the help of the local councils.

"Districts with the highest prevalence shall be served first and those with the lowest prevalence shall be served last.  To ensure that we achieve the objective of the campaign; register for receiving of the net," she said.

The minister explained that in a bid to bring down the malaria burden, her ministry has increased access to long-lasting insecticide nets which are cost effective.

"I appeal to the communities not to misuse the nets or use them for any other purposes. Health workers should sensitise the public," she urged.

According to 2015 malaria indicator survey, malaria is endemic in approximately 95% of the country affecting 90% of the population.