Global trachoma milestone: fewer than 100 million people now need treatment

For the first time since global records began, fewer than 100 million people worldwide require interventions against trachoma, the world’s leading infectious cause of blindness. This remarkable milestone reflects decades of sustained action by the eye health sector, governments, communities, and international partners working to implement the World Health Organization’s SAFE strategy—Surgery, Antibiotics, Facial cleanliness, and Environmental improvements. 

The Fred Hollows Foundation has been a major player in this global effort. Across our programs, we have supported the delivery of more than 200 million doses of antibiotics to combat trachoma. In Ethiopia, where we run our largest program, over 114 million doses have been distributed, reaching 95% of the population in the Oromia region through mass drug administration. Beyond antibiotics, The Foundation trains surgeons and community health workers, supports water and sanitation projects, and advocates for systemic change to ensure that elimination gains are sustained. 

This achievement highlights the power of partnership. Countries like Vietnam, Pakistan and Fiji have been validated by WHO as having eliminated trachoma as a public health problem, joining 25 others in this milestone. Progress has been driven by governments, local communities, non-government organisations, donors, and initiatives such as the Global Trachoma Mapping Project and Tropical Data, which have allowed interventions to be targeted effectively and tracked rigorously. 

While nearly 100 million people remain at risk, today’s milestone shows what is possible when global efforts are coordinated and persistent. With continued support, trachoma can become a disease of the past—saving sight and transforming lives for millions more. 

Read more about our work to eliminate trachoma here.