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 09-Oct-2024

WHO DECLARES THAT INDIA HAS ELIMINATED TRACHOMA AS A PUBLIC HEALTH PROBLEM IN 2024

Miscellaneous

Why in the News?

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently declared that the Government of India has successfully eliminated Trachoma as a public health problem. This achievement positions India as the third country in the South-East Asia Region to reach this significant milestone, following Bhutan and Nepal.

About Trachoma

  • It is an infectious eye disease.
  • It is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis.
  • It is the main cause of irreversible blindness worldwide, that can however be prevented.
  • The disease spreads through direct contact with the eyes or nose of an infected person, as well as through contaminated objects and poor hygiene practices.

Stages of Trachoma

About WHO

  • It is a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN).
  • It is the first global health organization which replaced many regional and national health bodies.
  • Established: 7th April1948.
    • A date now being celebrated every year as World Health Day.
  • Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland.
  • Membership: Members of the United Nations may become Members of the Organization.
    • Currently there are 194 Member States, 150 country offices, six regional offices.
  • Objectives
    • To act as the directing and coordinating authority on international health work.
    • To create and sustain productive partnerships with the UN, agencies, health authorities, and relevant organizations.
    • To aid the Governments, upon request, in strengthening health services.
    • To promote cooperation among scientific and professional groups which contribute to the advancement of health.
  • Governance: World Health Assembly (WHA) is WHO’s decision-making body attended by delegations from all of WHO’s member states,
    • It is held yearly at the headquarters of WHO.

WHO: Logo