PRO/EDR> Trachoma: Pakistan, India, elimination
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TRACHOMA: PAKISTAN, INDIA, ELIMINATION
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In this posting:
[1] Pakistan: trachoma elimination
[2] India: trachoma elimination
[1] Pakistan: trachoma elimination
Date: Tue 1 Oct 2024
Source: World Health Organization [edited] https://www.who.int/news/item/01-10-2024-who-validates-the-elimination-of-trachoma-as-a-public-health-problem-in-pakistan
In a monumental achievement for public health, the World Health
Organization (WHO) has validated the elimination of trachoma as a
public health problem in Pakistan. Trachoma is a disease caused by
infection by the Chlamydia trachomatis bacterium and can result in
irreversible blindness if left untreated.
“Today marks a pivotal moment in our journey towards a healthier
Pakistan”, said Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. “Together
with our partners, we not only celebrate this achievement but reaffirm
our unwavering commitment to effectively control and eliminate
diseases impeding our socioeconomic development by placing quality
health care within the reach of everyone in Pakistan.”
Pakistan becomes the 19th country globally to reach this historic
milestone. Its success in doing so underscores the Government of
Pakistan’s political commitment to public health, the value of WHO
technical support, and the incredible contributions of health
professionals, endemic communities, civil society, and partners like
Sightsavers, Christian Blind Mission, and the Fred Hollows Foundation.
The achievement is a significant marker in the global fight against
preventable diseases and their elimination.
“Elimination of trachoma as a public health problem in Pakistan is a
monumental achievement for the country and for the global fight
against the disease,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO
Director-General. “This milestone is a testament to the unwavering
dedication of Pakistan’s health workers, including many working at
community level. It underscores the power of collective action,
innovative thinking, and a shared commitment to a healthier future for
all. I commend Pakistan for its dedication and success in safeguarding
the vision of millions.”
In 1997, Pakistan was the first country to be certified free of
dracunculiasis (Guinea-worm disease) transmission. Elimination of
trachoma as a public health problem adds to this legacy. This latest
success is not the end, but a precursor, to more milestone
achievements along the road.
WHO’s Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean Dr Hanan Balkhy
underlined the significance of the achievement: “Congratulations to
Pakistan on the elimination of trachoma. Now Pakistan has eliminated 2
neglected tropical diseases, demonstrating the country’s dedication to
public health and serving as an inspiration to all.”
Pakistan’s success highlights the effectiveness of the WHO-recommended
SAFE strategy for eliminating trachoma, which includes surgery for
trichiasis, antibiotics to clear infection, and facial cleanliness and
environmental improvement to reduce transmission.
“This is a remarkable achievement which will save thousands of people
from preventable visual impairment or blindness,” said WHO
Representative in Pakistan Dr Luo Dapeng.
Pakistan’s successful elimination of trachoma as a public health
problem serves as a powerful reminder that the control, elimination
and eradication of many neglected tropical diseases is an attainable
goal.
The disease