Australia clears trachoma as public health concern
30 Apr 2026
The confirmation was announced on Wednesday, marking a major public health achievement under global efforts to eliminate neglected tropical diseases.
Trachoma, a contagious eye infection and the leading infectious cause of preventable blindness worldwide, mainly affected Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in remote parts of Australia.
Efforts to control the disease were strengthened nationally in 2006 with the introduction of the National Trachoma Management Program. The program focused on regular screening, early treatment, and prevention in communities considered at risk.
Over time, consistent public health action has led to a sharp decline in cases. Among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children aged 5–9 years, infection rates have dropped from 14.9% in 2009 to 1.5% in 2024.
RACGP Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Chair Dr Karen Nicholls said the result reflects years of ongoing commitment from communities and health workers working together on the ground.
She said the achievement highlights the importance of sustained effort in improving long-term health outcomes and reducing preventable disease.
Dr Nicholls also noted that eye health plays a key role in people’s ability to participate fully in education, work, and community life.
https://www1.racgp.org.au/
Source: newsGP / World Health Organization (WHO)