Together, we can end the agony of trachoma

Trachoma is the world’s leading infectious cause of blindness, and it affects millions of people worldwide.

When a person catches trachoma, it begins as a bacterial infection similar to conjunctivitis. At this stage, it is straightforward to treat. But over time, repeated infections cause the eyelashes to turn inward and scratch against the eyeball. This can cause intense pain and ultimately lead to permanent blindness.

Nine-year-old Mohamed knew the pain of trachoma. He developed the advanced form of the disease, trichiasis, and his lashes would scrape his eyes every time he blinked. For seven years, he lived in agony, unable to attend school regularly or play football with his friends. Mohamed’s symptoms were so severe that all he could do was stay at home in a dark room, shielding his eyes from the sun.