India Eliminates Trachoma as Public Health Problem in 2024, Recognized by WHO

Oct 8, 2024, 07:04 PM

India has been recognized by the World Health Organization South-East Asia Regional Office (WHO SEARO) for eliminating trachoma as a public health problem in 2024. The citation was awarded at the ongoing 77th Regional Conference. Smt. Aradhana Patnaik, Additional Secretary and Mission Director of the National Health Mission, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, received the award. Trachoma is a neglected tropical disease and the leading infectious cause of blindness globally. With this achievement, India becomes the third country in the South-East Asia Region to eliminate trachoma as a public health problem. WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus congratulated India on this significant milestone, highlighting the collaborative efforts of health workers, communities, the government, and partners.