FACE IT: Feasibility and economic evaluation of improved child deworming

Infections by parasitic helminth worms are still common, especially among children with reduced access to clean drinking water and sanitation. Current strategies to combat this problem, which is associated with a high risk of morbidity, involve the mass administration of a deworming drug. Though cost-effective, this approach does not target all species of parasitic worms and sometimes results in inappropriate dosages for children. The aim of this research consortium is to develop implementation guidance for a novel child deworming strategy involving ivermectin and albendazole while evaluating its feasibility, acceptability and cost-effectiveness.

In addition, this implementation research study aims to investigate the cost-effectiveness of a paediatric dosing of another drug, Praziquantel, as well as its associated access strategy in Uganda. A pilot distribution study in 2024 provided insights into the acceptability of this treatment strategy, as well as estimates for cost and time investments. Expanding this to a larger scale will allow the researchers to accurately inform the national Bilharzia and Worm Control Programme on best practice and estimated costs to be considered for national uptake and policy change. Additionally, training and supervision, along with strengthened reporting systems, are expected to translate into a sustained improvement in supporting marginalized children suffering from helminth infections.

This study, implemented in Uganda, initially benefits participants with early access to effective medication, but also hopes to provide insight for policy changes at the national and international level.