Progress towards the elimination of trachoma in Nigeria

Abstract

Trachoma is targeted for elimination as a public health problem worldwide by 2030. In Nigeria, elimination activities are implemented at the local government area (LGA) level. They started in 2002 by conducting baseline population-based prevalence surveys (PBPSs), which continued in a systematic manner with engagement from the Global Trachoma Mapping Project in 2013, and subsequently Tropical Data. The results led to the development of Nigeria's first trachoma action plan and its subsequent revision with additional information. Following 449 baseline PBPSs, 122 LGAs had an active trachoma prevalence above the elimination threshold, requiring interventions, while 231 LGAs required community-based interventions for trichiasis management. By 2021, >34 million antibiotic treatments had been provided in 104 LGAs, with 89 LGAs eliminating active trachoma. Nationally, water and sanitation coverages increased by 3% and 18%, respectively, in 7 y. Systematic trichiasis case finding and management were carried out in 231 LGAs, resulting in the management of 102 527 people. Fifty-four LGAs decreased trichiasis prevalence unknown to the health system to <0.2% in persons ≥15 y of age. Where this elimination prevalence threshold was reached, trichiasis services were transitioned to routine eye/healthcare systems. Such progress relied on strong leadership and coordination from the national trachoma program and tremendous support provided by partners. Attaining elimination of trachoma as a public health problem in Nigeria by 2030 is feasible if funding support is sustained.