How to Prevent Trachoma

Trachoma is an extremely serious infection of the eye that can lead to permanent blindness if left untreated. Reports from the World Health Organization indicate that as many as eight million people internationally have been exposed to trachoma. Symptoms range from mild to severe, including itching, irritation, light sensitivity, blurred vision, discharge from the eyes and pain at the site of infection. Luckily the disease is preventable, and curable if caught early enough.

Instructions

• 1

  Take extra precautions if you are visiting areas where the disease is prevalent. Although trachoma is rare in the United States, the disease is common in different international locations, especially third world countries.

• 2

  Get rid of flies. Flies are known culprits of spreading the trachoma infection. Using insect repellents like bug sprays, citrus candles and bug zappers can help prevent a person from contracting trachoma.

• 3

  Practice good hygiene. Never touch your hands to your eyes without first washing your hands. Keep your face clean in order to prevent trachoma. To do this, use antibacterial soap and warm water.

• 4

  Reduce the amount of waste. Food and animal waste can attract flies which can spread the trachoma infection. Place all waste in closed containers away from the home.

• 5

  Ensure access to fresh water. Areas that do not have fresh water are known for suffering outbreaks of the infectious disease trachoma. There should also be a sanitation system in place to ensure that human waste is disposed of properly.

• 6

  Limit the sharing of certain items. A person should not share personal items, such as towels and bedding. Eye makeup should also not be shared between individuals. This is especially important if you are near a person who you know has been exposed to trachoma.