Australia eradicates trachoma, ending threat of infectious blindness

Canberra: Trachoma, the world’s leading infectious cause of blindness, no longer presents a threat in Australia after decades of public health action, the World Health Organization confirmed this week.

The WHO has validated Australia for eliminating the disease, marking a major milestone in eye health. Trachoma can cause scarring of the eyelids, eyelashes that turn inward, and ultimately blindness if left untreated.

Australia made concerted efforts to eradicate the disease, particularly in remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities where it persisted. Trachoma is one of 21 diseases and disease groups regarded by the WHO as neglected tropical diseases, or NTDs.

NTDs affect more than 1 billion people worldwide and can have life-changing health, social, and economic consequences. They mainly occur in underserved or impoverished communities that lack essential services such as clean water, sanitation, and healthcare.

Mark Butler, Australia’s minister for health and ageing, said: “Elimination of trachoma is a win for the eye health of communities across Australia, particularly those whose lives have been impacted by a disease that is entirely preventable. This major milestone is thanks to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership, community commitment and sustained investment over many decades.”