Active trachoma in children aged three to nine years in rural communities in Ethiopia: prevalence, indicators and risk factors

Abstract

Trachoma is the most important infectious cause of blindness worldwide. In two rural populations in Ethiopia, a programme of preventative and treatment measures was initiated in May 2002. A baseline survey was conducted to evaluate the effect of this programme on the prevalence of active trachoma. A total of 1960 children aged 3-9 years, from 915 households in 40 communities, were examined for the presence of active trachoma. Demographic and household information was collected using questionnaires and household amenities and environmental conditions were observed. Overall, 72% of children had active trachoma. Twenty percent of children aged nine years had trachomatous scarring. In children, discharge in the eyes and flies on the eyes were significant indicators of trachoma (odds ratio [OR] = 3.0, 95% CI 1.94-4.55 and OR = 3.4, 95% CI 2.37-4.88, respectively). Frequency of washing children, a clean environment and hygienic disposal of excrement were significant preventative factors for active trachoma. Prevalence of active trachoma varies widely between and within districts. Risk factors comprise a mix of individual characteristics and household factors. This study demonstrates the need for broad target interventions and a flexible approach to the prevention of trachoma in high prevalence endemic rural populations.

Prevalence and risk factors for trachoma and ocular Chlamydia trachomatis infection in Niger

“…However, the dose of chlamydia imparted by a fly may be insufficient to establish an infection, but may be capable of eliciting the inflammatory response of clinical trachoma, which would be compatible with this observation. Although several other studies have found flies related to active trachoma in children, [22][23][24][25] only one study evaluated flies and the risk of infection, as measured using a direct fluorescent antibody test. 26 We found a positive association between infection and flies around the house, but flies on the face were not measured.…”

Effects of intervention with the SAFE strategy on trachoma across Ethiopia

“…Thus, 1000 households provided all the required samples both in the baseline and follow-up assessments. Baseline survey was not conducted in Enemor area, but estimates were taken from other studies conducted in the same Zone 25. A sample of 500 households was enough in Enemor area for the follow-up survey as the expected prevalence of trachoma trichiasis (TT) and TF was 8% and 35%, respectively.…”

Trichiasis: Making Progress Toward Elimination

“…16 Multiple factors are associated with the epidemiology and transmission of trachoma, including access to water, hygiene behaviors, presence of latrines, and markers of socioeconomic status. 4,7,8,17,18 Previous reviews have focused on the characteristics of active disease and infection, and will not be discussed in detail in this manuscript. [19][20][21][22][23] ' Risk Factors for Trichiasis Several risk factors for trachomatous scarring, the precursor to trichiasis, have been identified.…”