India Recognized by WHO in 2024 for Eliminating Trachoma, Third Country in Region

Oct 9, 2024, 03:40 AM

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