Algeria’s trachoma elimination earns WHO recognition
Algeria has eliminated trachoma as a public health problem, the World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed on 17 April, marking a major public health milestone for the country, Algerian state media AL24 News reported.
The certification places Algeria among a group of countries recognised by the WHO for eliminating the disease, which remains the leading infectious cause of blindness worldwide.
In a statement released by the Ministry of Health, authorities said trachoma was the fourth communicable disease eliminated in Algeria.
The ministry described the recognition as the result of years of national efforts focused on prevention, access to healthcare and improving living conditions.
Trachoma is caused by a bacterial infection affecting the eyes. Repeated infections can damage the eyelid and cornea, potentially leading to irreversible blindness if untreated, according to WHO data.
The disease remains concentrated in poorer and rural communities with limited access to clean water and sanitation. WHO says trachoma is still present in several countries, particularly in Africa.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus congratulated the Algerian government in a message addressed to Health Minister Mohamed Seddik Ait Messaoudane.
“The elimination of a disease such as trachoma is a major public health success, which required sustained effort and dedication,” Tedros said, according to the ministry statement.
The Algerian health minister praised the work of the National Trachoma Control Committee, healthcare workers and international partners involved in the programme.
He also thanked the WHO for its support during the process.
The ministry said the certification strengthened Algeria’s standing in international health efforts and reflected its ability to meet international public health standards.
Libya also received WHO validation earlier this year for eliminating trachoma as a public health problem, as countries in North Africa continue efforts to reduce preventable infectious diseases.
Algeria said it would continue efforts to maintain the achievement and support wider initiatives aimed at eliminating preventable diseases.
AL24 News, WHO, Maghrebi.org
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