Title: Physical measures
Course: Hygiene and Environmental Health Part 1 - Ethiopia (Full)

Physical measures

These include methods that stop vectors from getting into close contact with humans, and methods that are used to kill vectors. They include bed nets for mosquitoes and wire mesh for flies and mosquitoes Mosquito larvae can be controlled in some water containers by putting a thin layer of used oil on the surface of the water. This acts as a barrier between the water and the air so the larvae cannot access oxygen, and suffocate. Physical methods also include traps such as adhesives to control flies and traps for rats and mice (Figure 6.9). Delousing by boiling or steaming infested clothes are physical methods for controlling lice.

Figure 6.9  Rat trapping (urban roof rat). (Photo: Abera Kumie)