WHO declares Pakistan a trachoma-free country
PM Shehbaz Sharif felicitates nation on becoming trachoma-free
In a significant milestone for public health, the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared Pakistan a trachoma-free country. This disease, caused by the Chlamydia trachomatis bacterium, can lead to permanent blindness if not treated.
In a statement shared on Oct 1, WHO said, “Pakistan has become the 19th country globally to reach this historic milestone. Its success in doing so underscores the government of Pakistan’s political commitment to public health, the value of WHO technical support and the incredible contributions of health professionals, civil society and partners like Sightsavers, Christian Blind Mission and the Fred Hollows Foundation. The achievement is significant in the global fight against preventable diseases and their elimination.”
WHO Head of Mission in Pakistan Dr Luo Dapeng presented a trachoma-free Pakistan certificate to PM Shehbaz Sharif at an event organized in Islamabad to mark the feat.
To celebrate this significant progress in Pakistan’s public health journey, Dr. Luo Dapeng, WR Pakistan, presented a congratulatory letter from @WHO DG Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus to the Honourable Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif @GovtofPakistan pic.twitter.com/GuMHDuT0Ba
— WHO Pakistan (@WHOPakistan) October 1, 2024
Well done Pakistan in achieving another milestone in elimination of neglected tropical diseases! A remarkable journey of partnership by government and the technical and development partners.
— WHO Pakistan (@WHOPakistan) October 1, 2024
“The elimination of trachoma as a public health problem in Pakistan is a monumental achievement for the country and for the global fight against the disease,” said Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, while speaking at the function.
Speaking at the event, The prime minister said that the certificate symbolised the dedication of the health ministry and other stakeholders in the effort to eliminate the disease.
“As we have made Pakistan a trachoma-free country, we are also committed to eradicating polio and hepatitis as well,” PM vowed.
“Today marks a pivotal moment in our journey towards a healthier Pakistan. Together with our partners, we not only celebrate this achievement but reaffirm our unwavering commitment to effectively control and eliminate diseases impeding our socioeconomic development by placing quality health care within the reach of everyone in Pakistan,” prime minister Shehbaz Sharif said.
