The epidemiology and geographical distribution of trachoma in Lebowa

Abstract

The prevalence of active trachoma and its potentially blinding sequelae have been estimated in ten settlements scattered throughout rural Lebowa. The disease represents a major public health problem only in northern Lebowa where 25% of subjects over 60 years of age were found to be suffering form visual disability as a result of the infection. Although the disease is endemic in most other parts of lebowa it rarely causes blindness and impaired vision. A rational approach to the control of trachoma in the area which takes into account both local considerations and recent advances in the knowledge of the epidemiology of the disease is recommended.