Utilising the COM-B behaviour change model to increase the uptake of perennial malaria chemoprevention and routine immunisation in Nigeria

Authors: Chinazo Ujuju, Adekemi Ajayi, Helen Hawkings, Helen Ekpo, Semiu Adebayo Rahman, Ugomma Nyananyo, Michael Ekholuenetale, Abubakar Ahmed, Mary Abose Adekola, Benjamin Bukky Ilesanmi, Olusola Oresanya, James K Tibenderana

Social and behaviour change that creates not just awareness, but sustained capacity, motivation and opportunity, is essential to realise the full potential of perennial malaria chemoprevention in reducing malaria morbidity and mortality.

Perennial malaria chemoprevention (PMC) is the administration of an antimalarial drug to young children at predefined intervals, as recommended by WHO for children in areas with year-round malaria transmission. To generate evidence on the effectiveness and operational feasibility of PMC and inform policy adoption, Malaria Consortium is conducting the PMC Effect study in Osun state, Nigeria. To increase uptake and maximise impact of PMC, it is important to understand key behavioural drivers influencing uptake and to address barriers to effective PMC implementation. Using the COM-B behaviour change model, Malaria Consortium conducted a qualitative study to inform capability, opportunity and motivation for PMC and routine immunisation.

This poster was presented at the ASTMH 2025 Annual Meeting, held in Toronto, Canada on 9-13 November 2025.