The WHO has declared that India has eliminated trachoma as a public health problem in 2024.
International
The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced that the Government of India has eliminated trachoma as a public health problem. India received this recognition during the 77th Regional Conference of the WHO South-East Asia Region held in New Delhi.
- 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.
Main Points:- (i) India is the third country in the South-East Asia region to achieve this feat after Nepal and Myanmar.
(ii) Trachoma is an eye disease caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis.
About the World Health Organization (WHO)
Director-General: Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
Member Countries: 194 member states
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