Trachoma is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia Trachomatis. This simple micro-organism spreads in conditions of poor hygiene, crowded living, and limited access to clean water.
5 Facts You Might Not Know About Trachoma
Trachoma is the world’s leading infectious cause of blindness. But it’s also one of the most preventable. Here are five key facts that shine a light on this condition, and why Orbis is committed to ending it.
1. It’s Caused by a Common Bacterium
Four-year-old Abiso from rural Ethiopia was struggling with trachoma, but thanks to support from Orbis-trained health workers, he received the treatment he needed, and his bright smile returned.
2. It Affects the Most Vulnerable
Globally, more than 100 million people live in trachoma-endemic areas and are at risk. Women and children carry a greater burden. For example, in some regions, children aged 1–9 may have very high rates of active infection.
Lambore and her family in Ethiopia, thanks to supporters of Orbis, they had access to treatment that helps protect their sight from trachoma. Together we can change lives, one family at a time.
3. It Progresses Through Recognisable Stages
Repeated infections can lead to scarring, the turning-in of the eyelid (trichiasis) causing the eyelashes to scratch the cornea, and ultimately blindness if untreated. Because the damage builds over time, early intervention is vital.
Donate today to help us support eye-care teams, water & sanitation programmes, and surgical camps.
4. There Is a Proven Strategy for Elimination
The “SAFE” strategy (Surgery, Antibiotics, Facial cleanliness, Environmental improvement) is endorsed by the World Health Organization and deployed by Orbis and partners globally. For example, Orbis has delivered over 100 million doses of antibiotic in Ethiopia and worked with partners to expand clean water and sanitation access.
Here, thanks to your support, a mass drug administration is taking place in Kembata, Ethiopia and allowing children and adults the chance to receive medication.
5. The Vision of Elimination Is Within Reach
Since many countries have already eliminated trachoma as a public health problem, and with the right investment, remaining endemic countries can follow. Orbis’s goal: no one should suffer blindness from trachoma.
Sozema and Yegat in Ethiopia — thanks to Orbis‑supported eye care, their sight and hopes for the future have been restored.
Join Us in Saving Sight
Trachoma may sound like a distant disease, but its causes are preventable, and its cure is within our reach. At Orbis, we believe in a world where no one loses sight unnecessarily.
Authored by John Ferris
John Ferris is a UK ophthalmologist and a consultant Ophthalmologist at Cheltenham General Hospital since 1999. He is also an Orbis Volunteer and Orbis UK trustee.
