infected. The ability to read Thai, does not
support the hypothesis the theory having
had malaria increases the knowledge regarding
the disease. Thai writing is complex and
difficult to learn, especially for non-Thais.
The ability to read the language is a good
indicator of a rather good educational level
and intellectual ability. A good educational
background is useful for migrants when they
have to earn a living while in Thailand. The
migrants are not allowed to leave the area
they are working in. To earn a living they
have to look for employment in the agricultural
sector from Thai land owners in the
area or they have to resort to make a living
from working in the forest and collecting
forest products for sale. The latter requires
initiative, knowledge about what can be
gained from forest products and the ability
to trade the products. To earn a living as an
agricultural worker needs less intellectual
effort. The Mon were more involved in agricultural
activities and the Karen were more
at risk for contracting malaria while working
in or very close to the forest. This may
explain, at least partly, the unexpected result
that a higher education increases the risk
to get malaria. The major preventive measure
in the area is the use of ITN. Re-treatment
of nets is provided, but there is limited
information about the use of ITN among
migrants. Usually people working and staying
in the forest do not use ITN.