Trachoma – UPSC Prelims

Trachoma is a neglected tropical eye disease. It is caused by the infection due to the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis.

Transmission: Trachoma spreads through personal contact (via hands, clothes or bedding). It also transmits by flies that contact with the discharge from the eyes or nose of an infected person.

Vulnerable Group: Trachoma mainly affects children. It is becoming less common with increasing age.

Impact: Repeated Trachoma infection causes scarring leading to in-turning of the eyelashes and eyelids which further causes damage to cornea and blindness.

It is main cause of corneal blindness in India, affecting young children.