Ms. Nguyen Thi Lien Huong, Deputy Minister of Health, received a certificate and a plaque of honor from a WHO representative for her achievements in eliminating trachoma - Photo: WHO
According to WHO, over the past 70 years, Viet Nam has made continuous efforts to combat trachoma, treating hundreds of thousands of people and implementing strict control measures. These efforts have been significantly enhanced with the implementation of the WHO SAFE strategy, which includes surgery, antibiotics, facial hygiene and environmental improvement.
According to WHO, previous surveys have shown that trachoma is a public health problem in four provinces in Vietnam. Thirty years ago, 1.7% of people living in these high-risk provinces needed surgery to prevent blindness from trachoma.
However, by 2023, the proportion of adults with this form of blindness will have fallen to below 0.2%, the threshold needed for WHO to confirm the elimination of trachoma as a public health problem.
Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, said the elimination of trachoma as a public health problem in Viet Nam is a huge achievement for the country and the global fight against the disease.
“This milestone is a testament to the tireless dedication of Vietnam’s healthcare workers, including many who work in the community.
It is the power of collective action, creative thinking and a shared commitment to a healthier future for all.
I commend Vietnam for its dedication and success in protecting the sight of millions of people," said the WHO director-general.
Dr Saia Ma'u Piukala, WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific, also said that trachoma elimination in Viet Nam is a testament to the commitment of the Government, health workers and communities across the country.
“This is a prime example of how targeted interventions, strong partnerships and sustained efforts can bring about real change in population health,” said Dr Saia Ma’u Piukala.
Attending the meeting, Ms. Nguyen Thi Lien Huong, Deputy Minister of Health, said that eliminating trachoma is a source of pride for Vietnam.
“The joint efforts of many agencies and communities, with support from WHO and partner organizations, have saved thousands of people from lifelong blindness and economic disadvantage. Our children can now grow up safe from this painful and potentially blinding disease.
This is a great achievement for our people, which will benefit us for decades to come. On this joyful moment, on behalf of the Vietnamese people, I would like to express my sincere thanks to all the international partners who have contributed so much to the work of eliminating trachoma in Vietnam," said Ms. Huong.
Trachoma can cause blindness
Trachoma is the leading infectious cause of blindness worldwide. It is a preventable eye disease caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis.
Trachoma is spread by flies, and people can also become infected through direct contact with secretions from the eyes or nose of an infected person.
With repeated infections, the eyelashes can be pulled inward and rub against the surface of the eye, causing pain and damage to the cornea. Some people need surgery to prevent blindness from this condition.
Source: https://tuoitre.vn/who-danh-gia-cao-y-te-viet-nam-vi-loai-bo-benh-mat-hot-giam-nguy-co-mu-loa-20241021150657226.htm
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