Community perception of school-based mass drug administration program for soil-transmitted helminths and Schistosomiasis in Ogun State, Nigeria

Author summaryThis study explored the barriers to the uptake and coverage of control interventions for soil-transmitted helminths and Schistosomiasis in Nigeria. The study used key informant interviews and focus group discussions were conducted with stakeholders involved in Neglected Tropical Disease school-based control programs, including community members, teachers, parents, and school-aged children. The study found that the main barriers to the uptake and coverage of control interventions for soil-transmitted helminths and schistosomiasis were poor drug acceptability, limited accessibility to drugs, and inadequate knowledge about the diseases and the control interventions. Additionally, the study found that the implementation of Neglected Tropical Disease control programs was inconsistent due to the inadequacy of available support from partners. Overall, our study provides important insights into the barriers and facilitators to Neglected Tropical Disease school-based control programs and highlights the need for improved drug acceptability, accessibility, and knowledge about the diseases and control interventions. Our findings can inform the development of effective interventions to improve the uptake and coverage of control interventions. BackgroundNeglected tropical diseases, such as soil-transmitted helminths and Schistosomiasis, are prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly Ogun State, Nigeria. School-based mass drug administration program is the primary control intervention, but the coverage and uptake of this intervention have been inadequate. This study aimed to investigate community perceptions of school-based mass drug administration programs for these infections in Ogun State, Nigeria, and identify the barriers to their uptake and coverage. Methodology/Principal findingsThe study used a qualitative research approach involving focus group discussions and in-depth interviews with community members and stakeholders engaged in neglected tropical disease control programs in Ogun State, Nigeria. A semi-structured questionnaire guided the exploration of ideas, and the data were analyzed using the QRS Nvivo 12 software package. The study found several barriers, such as the influence of parents, lack of sufficient knowledge, and side effects. The study recommended strategies such as improving community sensitization and engagement, drug distribution and performance, and enhancing partner collaboration and coordination to improve the school-based mass drug administration programs. Conclusions/SignificanceThe study revealed correct perceptions of transmission but some misconceptions about disease causation, transmission, and drug safety. Participants expressed a desire for better sensitization campaigns and more assurances of their safety. The study recommends strengthening health education messages and increasing the visibility of on-site medical personnel. The findings have implications for improving the performance of these programs and reducing the burden of intestinal parasitic infections in the community. The study highlights the need for community engagement and education, health system support, and partner collaboration to successfully implement mass drug administration programs.