By In a significant public health milestone, the World Health Organization (WHO) has officially recognized Pakistan’s elimination of trachoma as a public health issue. Trachoma, caused by the Chlamydia trachomatis bacterium, can lead to irreversible blindness if untreated.
With this achievement, Pakistan becomes the 19th country worldwide to reach this historic status. The WHO credited the accomplishment to the Pakistani government’s commitment to public health, along with the essential support from WHO, health professionals, civil society, and organizations such as Sightsavers, Christian Blind Mission, and the Fred Hollows Foundation. This success marks a vital step in the global battle against preventable diseases.
Notably, Pakistan was the first nation to be certified free from Guinea-worm disease transmission in 1997. The elimination of trachoma adds to this legacy and signals the potential for further public health achievements.
At a ceremony celebrating this milestone, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif pledged to eradicate diseases like polio and hepatitis, building on the success of eliminating trachoma. He emphasized the importance of quality healthcare and the government’s dedication to controlling and eliminating diseases that hinder socioeconomic development.
During the event, WHO’s Head of Mission in Pakistan, Dr. Luo Dapeng, presented the trachoma-free certificate to the Prime Minister, signifying the hard work of the health ministry and various stakeholders. Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, called the elimination of trachoma in Pakistan a monumental achievement for both the nation and the global fight against the disease.
