Introduction
The SAFE strategy
The SAFE strategy is four linked interventions to control trachoma, delivered within the framework of a primary health care program.1
- Surgery for trichiasis
- Antibiotics for active trachoma
- Facial cleanliness
- Environmental improvement
Surgery is required to prevent blindness in individuals who because of repeated childhood infections, have developed severe scarring and then trichiasis.
Antibiotics eliminate chlamydial infection and active trachoma by disrupting the cycle of rapid and repeated re-infection. Antibiotics reduce family or community levels of infection while the longer-term public health measures are undertaken.
The F and E components of SAFE are particularly critical to achieving sustainable elimination of trachoma. Facial cleanliness prevents transmission and environmental improvements provide safe and functional bathrooms for hygiene practices.
1. Tian L, Wang NL. Trachoma control: the SAFE strategy. Int J Ophthalmol. 2018;11(12):1887–1888. Published 2018 Dec 18. doi: 10.18240/ijo.2018.12.01