Epidemiology of Trachoma in Health District of Fria in 2014

Abstract

Introduction: Trachoma is a chronic keratoconjunctivitis caused by Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria. An epidemiological study was conducted in 2014 in the Health District of Fria (Northern Guinea province) to assess the prevalence of active and scar trachoma in a suspected endemic area of approximately 120-135 inhabitants. This is a transversal, descriptive, clustered survey of a representative sample of the population according to the standard protocol recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). The clinical review of target populations was conducted according to WHO codification. Of the 3173 subjects recorded, 3159 subjects consented to be examined or an examination rate of 99,55%. The prevalence of active trachoma was 8.67% (CI at 95% = 7.2-10.4). The prevalence of scar trachoma was 0.21%. The principal sources of water for households are surface water (41%) and drilling water (41%). The prevalence of active and scar trachoma, risk factors are discussed. In our study, trachoma appeared as a public health problem in the health district of Fria. The prevalence of active and scar trachoma is approaching WHO limit. Poor hygiene was the main risk factor. The implementation of the different components of the strategy SAFE in this locality is a necessity.