In our recent fact-checking reports, there have been claims about a new contagious eye disease prevalent in the Central African Republic, specifically focusing on Trachoma. This analysis provides a detailed study of this condition for better understanding.
What is Trachoma?
Trachoma is a bacterial eye infection, specifically a chronic and highly contagious form of conjunctivitis caused by Chlamydia trachomatis.
Mode of Transmission:
Trachoma is highly contagious in its early stages and spreads through eye-to-eye contact, hand-to-eye contact, flies, or contaminated objects such as towels, handkerchiefs, and eye makeup. The disease can be transmitted from one person to another, from child to child, or from a child to their mother. Children aged 3 to 6 are particularly at risk, especially during the dry season when water is scarce and flies are abundant.
Prevention Measures:
To prevent Trachoma, the following sanitary practices should be implemented:
• Wash hands and face with clean water.
• Clean homes to eliminate places where mosquitoes might breed.
• Avoid sharing towels, washcloths, bed linens, or eye makeup with others.
Trachoma generally affects both eyes and, if untreated, can progress to irreversible corneal damage, potentially leading to permanent blindness. This bacterial infection causes the eyelid to turn inward, with eyelashes rubbing against the eye, causing intense pain and potentially damaging the cornea. Trachoma can be detected through an examination of the inner eyelid and is characterized by flare-ups and remissions.
Confirmation of Trachoma in the Central African Republic:
To verify the presence of this bacterial infection in the Central African Republic, we consulted health specialists.
Dr. George Yaya, an ophthalmologist at the CNHU of Bangui, confirmed the presence of Trachoma in 8 prefectures of the Republic of Central Africa: “Preliminary results (Lobaye 0.1%, Mambéré-Kadéï 0.6%, Sangha-Mbaéré 0.0%, Ombella-Mpoko 0.3%, Kémo 3.9%, Ouaka 1.8%, Basse-Kotto 21.4%, Mbomou 22.4%) show that Trachoma is still endemic in the CAR.”
He added, “The prevalence rate found in this study conducted in July 2015 represents only the tip of the iceberg, and further investigation is needed. Addressing visual disabilities through preventive treatment is a public health priority.”
Treatment:
The treatment for Trachoma involves taking oral antibiotics such as azithromycin, doxycycline, or tetracycline (some of these can be applied as ointments). Surgical intervention may be required if the eyelid is affected. Follow the instructions provided by health authorities in case of a rapid increase in the number of people affected by this infection.
By Marie-Paule Vopiade / Britney Ngalingbo / Romaric Gbomandji
This article is produced as part of the AFC-Internews partnership funded by USAID. However, the content does not reflect the responsibility of the partner.
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