ISLAMABAD: In a monumental achievement for public health in the country, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has validated the elimination of trachoma as a public health problem in Pakistan.

Trachoma is a disease caused by infection by the Chlamydia trachomatis bacterium and can result in irreversible blindness if left untreated.

“Pakistan has become the 19th country globally to reach this historic milestone. Its success in doing so underscores the government of Pakistan’s political commitment to public health, the value of WHO technical support and the incredible contributions of health professionals, civil society and partners like Sightsavers, Christian Blind Mission and the Fred Hollows Foundation. The achievement is significant in the global fight against preventable diseases and their elimination,” a statement issued by WHO said.

In 1997, Pakistan was the first country to be certified free of dracunculiasis (Guinea-worm disease) transmission. The elimination of trachoma as a public health problem adds to this legacy. This latest success is not the end but a precursor to more milestone achievements along the road.

PM vows to eradicate polio, hepatitis too after elimination of trachoma

Speaking at a function arranged to mark the occasion, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif vowed to eradicate diseases like polio and hepatitis from Pakistan after the country has successfully managed to eliminate trachoma.

“Today marks a pivotal moment in our journey towards a healthier Pakistan. Together with our partners, we not only celebrate this achievement but reaffirm our unwavering commitment to effectively control and eliminate diseases impeding our socioeconomic development by placing quality health care within the reach of everyone in Pakistan,” the prime minister said.

At the function, WHO Head of Mission in Pakistan Dr Luo Dapeng presented a trachoma-free Pakistan certificate to the PM.

The prime minister said that the certificate symbolised the dedication of the health ministry and other stakeholders in the effort to eliminate the disease.

“As we have made Pakistan a trachoma-free country, we are also committed to eradicating polio and hepatitis as well,” he added.

“The elimination of trachoma as a public health problem in Pakistan is a monumental achievement for the country and for the global fight against the disease,” said Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, while speaking at the function.

WHO’s Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean Dr Hanan Balkhy highlighted the significance of the achievement and said: “Congratulations to Pakistan on the elimination of trachoma! Now Pakistan has eliminated two neglected tropical diseases, demonstrating the country’s dedication to public health and serving as an inspiration to all.”

“This is a remarkable achievement which will save thousands of people from preventable visual impairment or blindness,” said WHO Representative in Pakistan Dr Luo Dapeng.

Pakistan’s success highlights the effectiveness of the WHO-recommended SAFE strategy for eliminating trachoma, which includes surgery for trichiasis, antibiotics to clear infection, and facial cleanliness and environmental improvement to reduce transmission.

Published in Dawn, October 2nd, 2024