ISLAMABAD: In a remarkable victory for public health, Pakistan has been declared trachoma-free by the World Health Organisation (WHO). This validation marks Pakistan as the 19th country globally to eliminate trachoma as a public health problem, a disease caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis that can lead to irreversible blindness if left untreated.
The WHO issued a statement lauding Pakistan’s achievement, highlighting the dedication of the government, healthcare professionals, civil society, and international partners like Sightsavers, Christian Blind Mission, and the Fred Hollows Foundation. “This milestone is a testament to Pakistan’s political commitment and the invaluable technical support from WHO in the fight against preventable diseases,” the statement read.
A Public Health Milestone
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif celebrated the occasion at a special function, where WHO’s Head of Mission in Pakistan, Dr. Luo Dapeng, presented the trachoma-free certificate. In his speech, the Prime Minister emphasized the significance of this achievement, stating, “Today marks a pivotal moment in our journey towards a healthier Pakistan. We are committed to eliminating more diseases like polio and hepatitis, just as we have eliminated trachoma.”
Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, also praised Pakistan’s achievement, stating that the elimination of trachoma represents a major step in the global fight against preventable diseases. WHO’s Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, Dr. Hanan Balkhy, added that Pakistan’s success serves as an inspiration for other countries working towards eliminating neglected tropical diseases.
Pakistan’s Commitment to Public Health
The success builds on Pakistan’s previous public health milestones, including being the first country certified free of Guinea-worm disease in 1997. Pakistan’s accomplishment in eliminating trachoma underscores the effectiveness of the WHO-recommended SAFE strategy, which includes surgery, antibiotics, facial cleanliness, and environmental improvements to prevent transmission.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated the government’s commitment to continue fighting diseases that hinder socioeconomic development and improving healthcare access for all citizens. He noted that this achievement is just one of many as Pakistan strives towards better health outcomes for its population.
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