Overall study design and study area
MALARIA
This was a randomized, controlled, observer-blind trial conducted among pre-school and school-age children in the Saraya district of Kedougou region, southeast Senegal (Fig. Map of Senegal showing the study site. Source: Ndiaye et al. Malaria Journal 2013, 12:240 Community engagement meetings were organized prior to the commencement of the study to explain the nature of the study to the parents/caregivers of potentially eligible children. During these meetings, the study team explained the need for this study, using a simple picture to illustrate the co-administration of SMC and anthelminthic drugs, the study rationale and informed consent procedure, and the risks and benefits of allowing their children to participate in the study. After these meetings, research staff identified parents/caregivers of potential study participants to explain the study to them in a more individual basis.