In News:

The World Health Organization (WHO) has now recognised that India has successfully eliminated trachoma, a bacterial infection that affects the eyes, as a public health problem.

WHO Declaration:

• India has eliminated Trachoma as a public health problem (2024).
• Third country in the South-East Asia Region to achieve this milestone.

Trachoma Overview:

• Bacterial infection caused by Chlamydia Trachomatis.
• Contagious; spreads through contact with infected secretions.
• Can lead to irreversible blindness if untreated.
• Considered a neglected tropical disease.

Global Impact:

• WHO estimates 150 million affected worldwide; 6 million at risk of blindness.
• Most prevalent in underprivileged communities with poor living conditions.

Historical Context in India:

• Leading cause of blindness in the 1950s-60s.
• National Trachoma Control Program launched in 1963.
• Control efforts integrated into the National Program for Control of Blindness (NPCB).

Statistics:

• Blindness due to Trachoma was 5% in 1971; now reduced to less than 1%.
• Implementation of the WHO SAFE strategy (Surgery, Antibiotics, Facial hygiene, Environmental cleanliness).

Milestones:

• India declared free from infective Trachoma in 2017.
• Continued surveillance for cases from 2019 to 2024.

National Trachomatous Trichiasis (TT) Survey:

• Conducted in 200 endemic districts (2021-2024) under NPCBVI.
• Mandated by WHO to confirm elimination status.