Morocco Eliminates Trachoma – the Leading Infectious Cause of Blindness

[post_published]

World Health Organization

Geneva | Marrakech – The World Health Organization (WHO) acknowledged the elimination of trachoma as a public health problem in Morocco.

Trachoma is the leading infectious cause of blindness worldwide. Transmitted through contact with eye and nose discharge of infected people, particularly young children, it affects populations in 42 countries, and is responsible for blindness or visual impairment in around 1.9 million people.

“This is an impressive public health achievement for Morocco,” said Dr Margaret Chan, WHO Director-General. “It demonstrates how strong political will, education, awareness, surveillance and most importantly community engagement, can work to defeat a debilitating disease.”

Read the full WHO press release.