A large number of people living in Ayod County, Jonglei State, Southern Sudan, are suffering from severe trachoma […] at least one person with clinical signs of trachoma was found in nearly every household, and one in three households had a person with severe blinding trachoma,” [according to a recent study], The Burden of Trachoma in Ayod County of Southern Sudan.
A total of 2,335 people from 392 households, of whom 1,107 were older than 14, were examined for trachoma by researchers from the Carter Center and the University of Cambridge.
Trachoma [occurs] especially where there are shortages of water, numerous flies, and crowded living conditions. […] Poor hygiene practices, such as improper disposal of solid waste and inadequate face cleaning, contribute to its spread.
Active trachoma in Ayod was among the highest reported globally. The study recommended urgent and sustained surgical intervention, the mass distribution of antibiotics, as well as the adoption of the practice of face washing and safe disposal of human waste. There was also a need for increased access to improved water sources.
Only 4.4 percent of the population in the survey area had a latrine, while 23.2 percent of individual caregivers reported never washing their children’s faces.
Source: IRIN, 24 Sep 2008
Related web sites: WHO – Trachoma ; International Trachoma Initiative
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