Pakistan Achieves Milestone: Officially Free of Trachoma Disease
Pakistan has officially eradicated trachoma, a bacterial infection caused by *Chlamydia trachomatis* that can lead to irreversible blindness if untreated. This remarkable achievement makes Pakistan the 19th country in the world to reach this significant milestone, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
This success highlights the Pakistani government’s strong commitment to public health, supported by WHO’s technical assistance and the invaluable contributions from health professionals, endemic communities, civil society, and organizations such as Sightsavers, Christian Blind Mission, and the Fred Hollows Foundation.
Eliminating trachoma marks a significant step in the global effort to combat preventable diseases. Pakistan previously made history in 1997 as the first country certified free of dracunculiasis (Guinea-worm disease) transmission, and now this achievement adds to its legacy.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, praised the accomplishment: “Elimination of trachoma as a public health problem in Pakistan is a monumental achievement for the country and the global fight against the disease.” He emphasized the dedication of health workers, particularly those at the community level, and the importance of collective action and innovative solutions in promoting a healthier future for all.
This milestone is a testament to Pakistan’s commitment to safeguarding the vision and health of millions, and it serves as a foundation for further progress in public health initiatives.
