Insights from mathematical modelling and quantitative analysis on the proposed 2030 goals for trachoma [version 2; peer review: 2 approved]

Trachoma is a neglected tropical disease and the leading infectious cause of blindness worldwide. The current World Health Organization goal for trachoma is elimination as a public health problem, defined as reaching a prevalence of trachomatous inflammation-follicular below 5% in children (1-9 year...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: NTD Modelling Consortium discussion group on trachoma
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: F1000 Research Ltd 2021-03-01
Series:Gates Open Research
Online Access:https://gatesopenresearch.org/articles/3-1721/v2
Description
Summary:Trachoma is a neglected tropical disease and the leading infectious cause of blindness worldwide. The current World Health Organization goal for trachoma is elimination as a public health problem, defined as reaching a prevalence of trachomatous inflammation-follicular below 5% in children (1-9 years) and a prevalence of trachomatous trichiasis in adults below 0.2%. Current targets to achieve elimination were set to 2020 but are being extended to 2030. Mathematical and statistical models suggest that 2030 is a realistic timeline for elimination as a public health problem in most trachoma endemic areas. Although the goal can be achieved, it is important to develop appropriate monitoring tools for surveillance after having achieved the elimination target to check for the possibility of resurgence. For this purpose, a standardized serological approach or the use of multiple diagnostics in complement would likely be required.
ISSN:2572-4754