Trachoma, a bacterial eye infection, was once a major threat to the eyesight of millions in India, particularly affecting underprivileged communities living in challenging environments. In the late 1990s, it was a leading cause of blindness in the country. However, through dedicated efforts and comprehensive programs, India has now achieved a remarkable victory: the elimination of trachoma as a public health concern. This accomplishment, recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), places India alongside only Nepal and Myanmar in the region to have successfully eradicated this debilitating disease.
Trachoma is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia Trachomatis and spreads through close contact with the eyes, eyelids, nose, or throat secretions of infected individuals. If left untreated, it can lead to irreversible blindness. Recognizing the severity of the issue, the Government of India launched the National Trachoma Control Programme in 1963, which later became integrated into the National Program for Control of Blindness (NPCB). This program aimed to combat the spread of trachoma through various interventions, including:
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Surgery:
To correct deformities caused by the infection.*
Antibiotics:
To treat active infections.*
Facial Hygiene:
To prevent the spread of the infection.*
Environmental Cleanliness:
To improve sanitation and reduce the risk of transmission.This comprehensive approach, known as the WHO SAFE strategy, proved highly effective in combating the spread of trachoma. As a result, in 2017, India was officially declared free from infective trachoma. However, the fight wasn’t over. To ensure complete eradication, surveillance continued in all districts from 2019 to 2024. Additionally, the National Trachomatous Trichiasis (TT only) Survey was conducted in 200 endemic districts from 2021 to 2024, as mandated by WHO, to confirm the elimination of trachoma as a public health problem.
After years of rigorous efforts and meticulous data collection, India finally received official confirmation from the WHO: trachoma has been eliminated as a public health concern. This achievement is a testament to the dedication of India’s health officials, the effectiveness of the national programs, and the commitment to improving the lives of its citizens. It is a significant milestone in the fight against neglected tropical diseases and a source of inspiration for other countries facing similar challenges.
