Why in the News?
The World Health Organization (WHO) recently declared that the Government of India has successfully eliminated Trachoma as a public health problem. This achievement positions India as the third country in the South-East Asia Region to reach this significant milestone, following Bhutan and Nepal.
About Trachoma
- It is an infectious eye disease.
- It is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis.
- It is the main cause of irreversible blindness worldwide, that can however be prevented.
- The disease spreads through direct contact with the eyes or nose of an infected person, as well as through contaminated objects and poor hygiene practices.
Stages of Trachoma
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About WHO
- It is a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN).
- It is the first global health organization which replaced many regional and national health bodies.
- Established: 7th April1948.
- A date now being celebrated every year as World Health Day.
- Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland.
- Membership: Members of the United Nations may become Members of the Organization.
- Currently there are 194 Member States, 150 country offices, six regional offices.
- Objectives
- To act as the directing and coordinating authority on international health work.
- To create and sustain productive partnerships with the UN, agencies, health authorities, and relevant organizations.
- To aid the Governments, upon request, in strengthening health services.
- To promote cooperation among scientific and professional groups which contribute to the advancement of health.
- Governance: World Health Assembly (WHA) is WHO’s decision-making body attended by delegations from all of WHO’s member states,
- It is held yearly at the headquarters of WHO.
WHO: Logo
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