Medical News Observer

Keep updated with latest medical research news

Trachoma

Trachoma is caused by Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria. It is a leading cause of global blindness. Trachoma it is spread through direct contact with eye, nose, or throat secretions of affected individuals or through contact with contaminated objects. Flies can also transfer the bacteria from person to person. The infection primarily affects communities in impoverished rural areas with limited sanitation and access to clean water. Repeated infections in childhood lead to eyelid scarring, which eventually turns inwards, causing the eyelashes to rub against the eyeball (trichiasis) and leading to corneal ulcers and irreversible blindness. The World Health Organization (WHO) has developed the SAFE strategy for trachoma control: Surgery for trichiasis, Antibiotics, Facial cleanliness, and Environmental improvements to reduce disease transmission. Successful implementation of this strategy, along with mass drug administration campaigns using antibiotics like azithromycin, has led to significant reductions in trachoma prevalence worldwide.


Trachoma

Latest Posts