In a significant achievement for public health, India has been officially declared free from trachoma, a contagious bacterial infection and a leading cause of preventable blindness, by the World Health Organization (WHO). This declaration follows years of dedicated efforts to safeguard the vision of millions.
Trachoma, caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, has historically posed serious threats, especially to children. Globally, it affects approximately 150 million people, with 6 million at risk of severe visual impairment. The disease spreads through close contact, shared personal items, and environmental factors such as poor hygiene and overcrowding.
India faced a trachoma crisis as recently as the mid-20th century, with states like Gujarat and Rajasthan reporting over 50% prevalence rates. By 1971, it accounted for 5% of the country’s blindness cases. In response, the Indian government launched the National Trachoma Control Program in 1963, implementing the WHO SAFE strategy that focuses on Surgery, Antibiotics, Facial cleanliness, and Environmental improvements.
Significant progress was made over the years. By 2018, the prevalence of trachoma had dropped to just 0.008%. A National Trachoma Survey conducted from 2014 to 2017 confirmed the elimination of active infections among children in surveyed districts, well below the WHO elimination threshold of 5%.
The commitment to combat trachoma has continued beyond its elimination. From 2019 to 2024, India maintained vigilant surveillance to prevent any resurgence of the disease. WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus commended India’s collaborative efforts between government agencies, healthcare workers, and international partners.
With this achievement, India joins 20 other countries that have successfully eliminated trachoma as a public health issue. However, the disease remains a challenge in 39 nations worldwide, affecting nearly 1.9 million people.
India’s journey to becoming trachama-free underscores the power of teamwork in public health, emphasizing the importance of ongoing public health initiatives to ensure future generations can enjoy good eyesight.
