The World Health Organization has declared that India and Pakistan are free of trachoma. Trachoma is a bacterial eye disease that can lead to pain and, if untreated, blindness. It spreads by contact with eye, nose or throat fluids and by flies.
Trachoma mainly affects communities with limited water and sanitation. WHO supports the SAFE approach: surgery, antibiotics, facial cleanliness and environmental change. Health teams used these measures in both countries.
Experts say efforts must continue. A Sightsavers representative praised the work but warned that programmes and community awareness must be kept up to stop the disease returning.
Difficult words
- trachoma — eye infection that can cause pain and blindness
- bacterial — relating to or caused by bacteria
- blindness — loss of sight or ability to see
- sanitation — systems for clean water and waste removal
- antibiotic — medicine used to kill bacteria and infectionsantibiotics
- programme — organized public health activities in a communityprogrammes
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How can better water and sanitation help prevent trachoma where you live?
- Which SAFE measure could people do at home and why?
- Why is it important to keep community awareness after the disease is declared free?
Related articles
Study warns of heavier rain and hotter nights in Tanzania
New research warns parts of Tanzania will see more extreme rainfall and rising temperatures. Experts say farmers, health and cities will be affected and call for stronger national policies, preparedness and community climate finance.
New law sets marriage age at 18, but child marriage continues in South Punjab
In May 2025 Pakistan made the legal marriage age 18 for everyone. Child marriage still happens in South Punjab, as seen in Behal, where a 14-year-old girl named Zunaira was arranged to marry a much older man.