Libya Declares Victory Over Trachoma: A Turning Point for Public Health in the Eastern Mediterranean
Libya has officially eliminated trachoma as a public health problem, a landmark achievement validated by the World Health Organization (WHO) on February 18, 2026. This victory marks the 28th country globally, and the 8th in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, to reach this milestone, offering renewed hope in the fight against neglected tropical diseases.
A Century-Long Battle Concluded
Trachoma, a bacterial infection spread through contact with infected eye discharge, has plagued Libya for over a century. Surveys conducted throughout the 20th century revealed high rates of the disease, particularly in southern regions. The infection, if left untreated, can lead to trichiasis – a painful condition where eyelashes turn inward and scratch the cornea – ultimately causing preventable blindness.
Early control efforts began in the 1970s and 80s, but significant progress accelerated in 2017 when trachoma elimination was prioritized within Libya’s National Prevention of Blindness Programme. Supported by the WHO, Sightsavers, the International Trachoma Initiative, and Tropical Data, surveys in 2022 showed trachoma prevalence falling below WHO elimination thresholds in six southern districts. A subsequent surgical campaign addressed remaining cases of trichiasis, and a follow-up survey in 2025 confirmed the success.
Triumph Amidst Adversity
Libya’s success is particularly noteworthy given the years of political instability and humanitarian challenges the country has faced. These pressures strained health services and increased the demand for basic necessities like water and sanitation – factors that can exacerbate the spread of trachoma. Despite these obstacles, the national programme successfully integrated surveillance, expanded access to surgical care, and built capacity among eye health workers.
“This validation is a source of pride for Libya,” stated Dr. Mohamed Al-Ghoj, Acting Minister of Health. “Even through difficult years, we maintained our focus on improving eye health services and ensuring no one was left behind.”
A Global Movement Against Neglected Tropical Diseases
The elimination of trachoma in Libya is part of a larger global effort to combat neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). These 21 conditions affect one billion people worldwide, disproportionately impacting impoverished communities in tropical areas. The WHO launched the Alliance for the Global Elimination of Trachoma by 2020 (GET2020) in 1996, fostering collaboration between governments, NGOs, and academic institutions.
Libya is now the 59th country globally to eliminate at least one NTD. Nine countries achieved similar milestones in 2025 alone, demonstrating the growing momentum in this field.
What Does This Indicate for the Future?
Libya’s achievement provides a valuable model for other countries struggling with trachoma and other NTDs. The success highlights the importance of evidence-based programming, coordinated technical support, and strong regional collaboration. Continued investment in surveillance, access to surgical care, and capacity building will be crucial for sustaining this progress and preventing re-emergence of the disease.
Did you know? Trachoma is preventable and treatable with antibiotics and simple surgery to correct trichiasis.
FAQ
What is trachoma? Trachoma is a bacterial infection that can lead to preventable blindness.
How is trachoma spread? It spreads through contact with infected eye discharge via hands, clothing, or flies.
What is trichiasis? Trichiasis is a condition where eyelashes turn inward and scratch the eyeball, often caused by scarring from repeated trachoma infections.
How many countries have eliminated trachoma? As of February 2026, 28 countries worldwide have eliminated trachoma as a public health problem.
What are neglected tropical diseases? These are a diverse group of 21 conditions affecting one billion people globally, primarily in impoverished tropical communities.
Pro Tip: Improved access to clean water and sanitation are key preventative measures against trachoma.
Learn more about the WHO’s work on neglected tropical diseases here.
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