India Eliminates Trachoma Disease: WHO

Trachoma Disease

It is an infectious eye disease caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis.
It is the leading infectious cause of blindness worldwide and primarily affects people in impoverished regions with limited access to clean water and sanitation.
WHO has termed Trachoma as a Neglected tropical disease (NTD).
Transmission
- Through direct contact with eye or nose secretions from infected individuals.
- It can also spread via contaminated objects (like towels) and through flies that carry the bacteria.
At-Risk Populations:
- Preschool-age children are the main reservoir for the infection, but anyone in crowded living conditions without proper hygiene can be affected.
- Blindness from trachoma is irreversible.

No trachoma vaccine is available, but prevention is possible.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the SAFE strategy, which includes:
- Surgery: To correct trichiasis (inward-turning eyelashes).
- Antibiotics: Mass treatment with azithromycin to clear infections.
- Facial Cleanliness: Promoting hygiene to reduce transmission.
- Environmental Improvements: Enhancing access to clean water and sanitation facilities.