'Olyset' mosquito net in original packaging, Japan, 2005

'Olyset' mosquito net, sealed in original packaging, impregnated with Permethrin insecticide and classified as a Long Lasting Insecticidal Net (LLIN) approved for use by the World Health Organisation (WHO). Mass-manufactured for distribution as part of the international anti-malaria campaign, particularly focussed on Africa, developed by Sumitomo Chemicals Co. Ltd. (Japan), in partnership with the World Health Organisation, c2005.

This plastic weave mosquito net provides both a physical and a chemical barrier against the malaria-carrying mosquito. The net is covered with a chemical called Peremetherin, an insecticide which kills insects on first contact. The net is classified as a Long Lasting Insecticidal Net (LLIN) and its chemical coating will remain active for a minimum of five years.

Sumitomo Chemical Co Ltd developed the ‘Olyset’ mosquito net in 1978, but it was not approved by the World Health Organisation (WHO) until 2001. In 2006 the net was mass produced as part of a WHO international anti-malaria campaign, which was particularly focussed on Africa.