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Trachoma – eye infection

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Fact sheet - Health conditions directory

Trachoma is a preventable eye condition caused by repeated infections with eye strains of the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis that lead to a roughening of the inner surface of the eyelid. These strains are different from the genital strains which cause the common sexually transmissible infection referred to as 'chlamydia'. It causes blindness in older people who have had severe active trachoma usually in childhood. It is the most common cause of infectious and preventable blindness worldwide. Trachoma occurs mainly in developing countries where living conditions are crowded and general hygiene is poor.

Public health management guidelines

Last updated: 5 June 2023

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