Introduction

Trachoma: a preventable cause of blindness

Trachoma is transmitted by direct contact with infected eye and/or nose secretions mainly between young children living in overcrowded and poorly maintained housing, without safe and functional bathroom and washing facilities.

Trachoma is directly related to the social determinants of health including poverty and overcrowded living conditions.  

Other key drivers of infection are poorly maintained bathrooms and washing facilities and inadequate personal hygiene practices.

Australia uses the WHO endorsed four-part SAFE Strategy for trachoma elimination.