Background Integration of vertical programmes for the control of malaria, schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis has been recommended to achieve the elimination of malaria and neglected tropical diseases (NTD) by 2030. Given the dearth of studies on the acceptability of the integrated approach, we conducted this qualitative study within the context of a randomized controlled trial to explore the perceptions and views of parents/caregivers of at-risk children and healthcare providers to determine their acceptability of the integrated malaria-helminth treatment approach.

Methods Randomly selected parents/caregivers of children enrolled in the trial, health care providers, trial staff, malaria and NTD programme managers were interviewed using purpose-designed topic guides. Transcripts obtained from the interviews were coded and common themes identified using content analysis were triangulated. Fifty-seven study participants comprising 26 parents/caregivers, 10 study children aged ≥10 years, 15 trial staff, four health care providers and two managers from the Senegal Ministry of Health were interviewed.

Results Thirty-eight of the participants (66.7%) were males and their ages ranged from 10–65 years. Overall, the integrated malaria-helminth treatment approach was considered acceptable but the study participants expressed concerns about the taste, smell and side effects associated with amodiaquine and praziquantel in the combination package. Reluctance to accept the medications was also observed among children aged 10–14 years, due to peer influence and gender-sensitive cultural beliefs.

Conclusion Addressing concerns about the taste and smell of amodiaquine and praziquantel is needed to optimize the uptake of the integrated treatment programme. Also, culturally appropriate strategies need to be put in place to cater for the inclusion of children aged 10–14 years in this approach.