Port Moresby/Manila/Geneva: In a groundbreaking public health triumph, Papua New Guinea (PNG) has been officially validated by the World Health Organization (WHO) for eliminating trachoma as a public health problem. Trachoma, a neglected tropical disease (NTD) and the world’s leading infectious cause of blindness, no longer threatens the health and vision of PNG’s communities. The milestone was announced during the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, following a meticulous review of PNG’s elimination dossier by WHO experts.
Trachoma, caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, spreads through direct personal contact, flies that have come into contact with eye or nose discharge, and contaminated surfaces. Repeated infections can lead to scarring of the inner eyelid, causing the eyelashes to turn inward (trachomatous trichiasis), which painfully scratches the cornea and, if untreated, results in irreversible blindness. Globally, trachoma remains a significant challenge in vulnerable communities with limited access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene, making PNG’s achievement a beacon of hope.
“This incredible achievement is a testament to the power of science and sustained partnerships,” said WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, congratulating the government and people of Papua New Guinea. “It shows what’s possible when we unite to protect the health and dignity of communities.”
Dr. Saia Ma’u Piukala, WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific, echoed this sentiment: “Papua New Guinea’s success is a shining example of medical science in action. It reflects a deep understanding of local epidemiology and an unwavering commitment to targeted interventions. We applaud the National Department of Health, health workers, researchers, and partners for their relentless dedication.”
PNG’s Path to Elimination
PNG’s journey to eliminate trachoma began with critical epidemiological insights. Population-based surveys conducted in 2015 revealed signs of active trachoma in children but very low levels of Chlamydia trachomatis infection and negligible cases of trachomatous trichiasis, the advanced stage that leads to blindness. A follow-up ancillary survey in 2020 confirmed that affected children were not progressing to severe disease, a pattern observed in other Melanesian countries like Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands. This unique epidemiological profile indicated that trachoma in PNG was not as aggressive as in other endemic regions, allowing for a tailored approach.
Unlike many countries where elimination required large-scale interventions, such as surgical campaigns to correct trichiasis, mass drug administration of antibiotics, or widespread improvements in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), PNG’s strategy centred on robust disease surveillance. The National Department of Health, in collaboration with local and international partners, conducted rapid assessments, prevalence surveys, and community-level investigations. These efforts confirmed that community-wide interventions were unnecessary, as the disease burden was already low and not progressing to severe outcomes.
A Collaborative Triumph
PNG’s success was bolstered by a coalition of partners providing technical and financial support. Key contributors included the WHO, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Fred Hollows Foundation, the Brien Holden Vision Institute, Sightsavers, and PNG Eye Care. Scientific expertise came from organisations like the Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, the Global Trachoma Mapping Project, Collaborative Vision, Tropical Data, and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine. These collaborations enabled precise data collection and analysis, ensuring PNG’s elimination claim was evidence-based and robust.
A Regional and Global Milestone
PNG’s achievement marks it as the first country in its immediate region to eliminate trachoma as a public health problem and the first NTD eradicated in the country. Since 2016, 13 countries in the Western Pacific Region have been validated by WHO for eliminating at least one NTD, with PNG now joining this prestigious group. Globally, 56 countries have eliminated at least one NTD, including 22 others that have successfully eradicated trachoma. This milestone aligns with the WHO’s NTD road map 2021–2030, which aims to accelerate progress toward eliminating NTDs and improving health equity for the world’s most disadvantaged communities.
Looking Ahead
PNG’s victory over trachoma underscores the importance of tailored, evidence-based public health strategies. By leveraging local data and international expertise, PNG has set a model for other nations battling NTDs. The WHO continues to support global efforts to eliminate trachoma and other NTDs, ensuring that even the most vulnerable populations can live healthier, more dignified lives.
As PNG celebrates this landmark, the global health community looks to its example as a reminder that with persistence, partnership, and science, even the most entrenched diseases can be overcome.
– global bihari bureau
