Algeria Eliminates Trachoma as WHO Validates Public Health Milestone

Minteesinot Niggusie

The World Health Organization (WHO) has validated Algeria as having eliminated trachoma as a public health problem, marking the 10th country in its African region and the 29th globally to reach the threshold. Trachoma, a bacterial eye infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, remains the world’s leading infectious cause of blindness.

The disease is still endemic in 30 countries, with around 1.9 million people suffering blindness or visual impairment and an estimated 97 million at risk, according to WHO data. The validation follows decades of coordinated public health interventions in Algeria, combining mass antibiotic distribution, surgical treatment for advanced cases, and sustained improvements in hygiene.

The country adopted the WHO-backed SAFE strategy, which integrates surgery, antibiotics, facial cleanliness and environmental measures. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO director-general, described the achievement as the result of long-term political commitment and health system investment.

Algeria’s campaign dates back to the early 20th century, with efforts intensifying after independence through the expansion of a public healthcare system that began offering free services in 1974. A targeted push between 2013 and 2015 focused on 12 southern provinces where the disease remained prevalent.

Surveys conducted in 2022 confirmed that infection levels had fallen below WHO thresholds nationwide. The Algerian health ministry submitted its validation dossier in December 2025, citing strong health infrastructure and expanded eye care services.

Mohamed Janabi, WHO regional director for Africa, said the milestone would ease the social and economic burden linked to preventable blindness, particularly in vulnerable communities. Algeria’s health minister added that surveillance would continue to prevent any resurgence.

WHO continues to recommend ongoing monitoring in previously affected areas worldwide.