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Sata E, Seife F, Ayele Z, Murray SA, Wickens K, Le P, Zerihun M, Melak B, Chernet A, Jensen KA, Gessese D, Zeru T, Dawed AA, Debebe H, Tadesse Z, Callahan EK, Martin DL, Nash SD. Wait and watch: A trachoma surveillance strategy from Amhara region, Ethiopia. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2024; 18:e0011986. [PMID: 38386689 PMCID: PMC10914254 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trachoma recrudescence after elimination as a public health problem has been reached is a concern for control programs globally. Programs typically conduct district-level trachoma surveillance surveys (TSS) ≥ 2 years after the elimination threshold is achieved to determine whether the prevalence of trachomatous inflammation-follicular (TF) among children ages 1 to 9 years remains <5%. Many TSS are resulting in a TF prevalence ≥5%. Once a district returns to TF ≥5%, a program typically restarts costly mass drug administration (MDA) campaigns and surveys at least twice, for impact and another TSS. In Amhara, Ethiopia, most TSS which result in a TF ≥5% have a prevalence close to 5%, making it difficult to determine whether the result is due to true recrudescence or to statistical variability. This study's aim was to monitor recrudescence within Amhara by waiting to restart MDA within 2 districts with a TF prevalence ≥5% at TSS, Metema = 5.2% and Woreta Town = 5.1%. The districts were resurveyed 1 year later using traditional and alternative indicators, such as measures of infection and serology, a "wait and watch" approach. METHODS/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS These post-surveillance surveys, conducted in 2021, were multi-stage cluster surveys whereby certified graders assessed trachoma signs. Children ages 1 to 9 years provided a dried blood spot and children ages 1 to 5 years provided a conjunctival swab. TF prevalence in Metema and Woreta Town were 3.6% (95% Confidence Interval [CI]:1.4-6.4) and 2.5% (95% CI:0.8-4.5) respectively. Infection prevalence was 1.2% in Woreta Town and 0% in Metema. Seroconversion rates to Pgp3 in Metema and Woreta Town were 0.4 (95% CI:0.2-0.7) seroconversions per 100 child-years and 0.9 (95% CI:0.6-1.5) respectively. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Both study districts had a TF prevalence <5% with low levels of Chlamydia trachomatis infection and transmission, and thus MDA interventions are no longer warranted. The wait and watch approach represents a surveillance strategy which could lead to fewer MDA campaigns and surveys and thus cost savings with reduced antibiotic usage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eshetu Sata
- Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Fikre Seife
- Disease Prevention and Control Directorate, Ministry of Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Zebene Ayele
- Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Sarah A. Murray
- Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Karana Wickens
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
- Internships and Fellowships, Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Phong Le
- Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Mulat Zerihun
- Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Berhanu Melak
- Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Ambahun Chernet
- Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Kimberly A. Jensen
- Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Demelash Gessese
- Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Taye Zeru
- Research and Technology Transfer Directorate, Amhara Public Health Institute, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Adisu Abebe Dawed
- Department of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Amhara Regional Health Bureau, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Hiwot Debebe
- Department of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Amhara Regional Health Bureau, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Zerihun Tadesse
- Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - E. Kelly Callahan
- Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Diana L. Martin
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Scott D. Nash
- Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
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Burgert-Brucker CR, Adams MW, Mingkwan P, Flueckiger R, Ngondi JM, Solomon AW, Harding-Esch EM. Community-level trachoma ecological associations and the use of geospatial analysis methods: A systematic review. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010272. [PMID: 35395003 PMCID: PMC9020723 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Trachoma is targeted for global elimination as a public health problem by 2030. Understanding individual, household, or community-associated factors that may lead to continued transmission or risk of recrudescence in areas where elimination has previously been achieved, is essential in reaching and maintaining trachoma elimination. We aimed to identify climatic, demographic, environmental, infrastructural, and socioeconomic factors associated in the literature with trachoma at community-level and assess the strength of their association with trachoma. Because of the potential power of geospatial analysis to delineate the variables most strongly associated with differences in trachoma prevalence, we then looked in detail at geospatial analysis methods used in previous trachoma studies. Methods We conducted a systematic literature review using five databases: Medline, Embase, Global Health, Dissertations & Theses Global, and Web of Science, including publications from January 1950 to January 2021. The review protocol was prospectively registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020191718). Results Of 35 eligible studies, 29 included 59 different trachoma-associated factors, with eight studies also including spatial analysis methods. Six studies included spatial analysis methods only. Higher trachomatous inflammation—follicular (TF) prevalence was associated with areas that: had lower mean annual precipitation, lower mean annual temperatures, and lower altitudes; were rural, were less accessible, had fewer medical services, had fewer schools; and had lower access to water and sanitation. Higher trachomatous trichiasis (TT) prevalence was associated with higher aridity index and increased distance to stable nightlights. Of the 14 studies that included spatial methods, 11 used exploratory spatial data analysis methods, three used interpolation methods, and seven used spatial modelling methods. Conclusion Researchers and decision-makers should consider the inclusion and potential influence of trachoma-associated factors as part of both research activities and programmatic priorities. The use of geospatial methods in trachoma studies remains limited but offers the potential to define disease hotspots and areas of potential recrudescence to inform local, national, and global programmatic needs. The ambitious target to eliminate trachoma as a public health problem has led to impressive strides in reducing the disease burden worldwide, with the implementation of the World Health Organization (WHO)-endorsed surgery, antibiotics, facial cleanliness and environmental improvement (SAFE) strategy. However, some areas have struggled to reach the elimination threshold after the prescribed number of antibiotic mass drug administration rounds, and some areas have had evidence of trachoma recrudescence after previously having reached the elimination threshold. This systematic review assessed climatic, demographic, environmental, infrastructural, and socioeconomic factors associated with trachoma to reveal which covariates are associated with ongoing or renewed trachoma transmission. We also explored how geospatial analysis, which could help identify areas with ongoing trachoma transmission or heightened risk of recrudescence, has been used in previous trachoma studies. Thirty-five studies met the inclusion criteria for the review. Results indicated that researchers and decision-makers should consider the inclusion and potential influence of precipitation, temperature, and altitude along with variables related to ruralness, accessibility, access to medical services and schools, and community-level water and sanitation coverage, as part of both research activities and programmatic priorities for trachoma elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara R. Burgert-Brucker
- RTI International, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Molly W. Adams
- RTI International, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
| | - Pia Mingkwan
- RTI International, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca Flueckiger
- RTI International, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
| | - Jeremiah M. Ngondi
- RTI International, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
| | - Anthony W. Solomon
- Department of Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
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Gallini JW, Sata E, Zerihun M, Melak B, Haile M, Zeru T, Gessese D, Ayele Z, Tadesse Z, Callahan EK, Nash SD, Weiss PS. Optimizing cluster survey designs for estimating trachomatous inflammation-follicular within trachoma control programs. Int J Infect Dis 2021; 116:101-107. [PMID: 34965463 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2021.12.355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The World Health Organization recommends mass drug administration (MDA) with azithromycin to eliminate trachoma as a public health problem. MDA decisions are based on prevalence estimates from two-stage cluster surveys. Work remains to mathematically evaluate current trachoma survey designs. We aimed to characterize the effects of the number of units sampled on the precision and cost of trachomatous inflammation-follicular (TF) estimates. METHODS We simulated a population of 30 districts to represent the breadth of possible TF distributions in Amhara, Ethiopia. Samples of varying numbers of clusters (14-34) and households (10-60) were selected. Sampling schemes were evaluated on precision, proportion of incorrect and low MDA decisions made, and estimated cost. RESULTS Number of clusters sampled had a greater impact on precision than number of households. The most efficient scheme depended on the underlying TF prevalence in a district. For lower prevalence areas (<10%) the most cost efficient (providing adequate precision while minimizing cost) design was 20 clusters of 20-30 households. For higher prevalence areas (>10%), the most efficient design was 15-20 clusters of 20-30 households. CONCLUSIONS For longer-running programs, using context-specific survey designs would allow for practical precision while reducing survey costs. Sampling 15 clusters of 20-30 households in suspected moderate to high prevalence districts and 20 clusters of 20-30 households in districts suspected to be near the 5% threshold appears to be a balanced approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia W Gallini
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Eshetu Sata
- Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Mulat Zerihun
- Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Berhanu Melak
- Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Mahteme Haile
- Amhara Public Health Institute, Bahir Dar, Amhara, Ethiopia
| | - Taye Zeru
- Amhara Public Health Institute, Bahir Dar, Amhara, Ethiopia
| | - Demelash Gessese
- Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Zebene Ayele
- Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Zerihun Tadesse
- Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - E Kelly Callahan
- Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Scott D Nash
- Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
| | - Paul S Weiss
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Mahmud H, Landskroner E, Amza A, Aragie S, Godwin WW, de Hostos Barth A, O’Brien KS, Lietman TM, Oldenburg CE. Stopping azithromycin mass drug administration for trachoma: A systematic review. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009491. [PMID: 34237074 PMCID: PMC8266061 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends continuing azithromycin mass drug administration (MDA) for trachoma until endemic regions drop below 5% prevalence of active trachoma in children aged 1–9 years. Azithromycin targets the ocular strains of Chlamydia trachomatis that cause trachoma. Regions with low prevalence of active trachoma may have little if any ocular chlamydia, and, thus, may not benefit from azithromycin treatment. Understanding what happens to active trachoma and ocular chlamydia prevalence after stopping azithromycin MDA may improve future treatment decisions. We systematically reviewed published evidence for community prevalence of both active trachoma and ocular chlamydia after cessation of azithromycin distribution. We searched electronic databases for all peer-reviewed studies published before May 2020 that included at least 2 post-MDA surveillance surveys of ocular chlamydia and/or the active trachoma marker, trachomatous inflammation–follicular (TF) prevalence. We assessed trends in the prevalence of both indicators over time after stopping azithromycin MDA. Of 140 identified studies, 21 met inclusion criteria and were used for qualitative synthesis. Post-MDA, we found a gradual increase in ocular chlamydia infection prevalence over time, while TF prevalence generally gradually declined. Ocular chlamydia infection may be a better measurement tool compared to TF for detecting trachoma recrudescence in communities after stopping azithromycin MDA. These findings may guide future trachoma treatment and surveillance efforts. Trachoma, caused by repeated infections with ocular Chlamydia trachomatis, substantially contributes to the global burden of blindness. Community-wide distribution of the oral antibiotic azithromycin in trachoma endemic regions has contributed to significant decline in the prevalence of both ocular chlamydia infection and clinical findings of active trachoma. After azithromycin mass drug administration (MDA) stops, both ocular chlamydia and active trachoma can return. Our systematic review finds that ocular chlamydia infection may return to communities faster than signs of active trachoma, which may help better understand the utility of different trachoma indicators for post-MDA surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamidah Mahmud
- University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- Francis I. Proctor Foundation, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Emma Landskroner
- Francis I. Proctor Foundation, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Abdou Amza
- Programme National de Santé Oculaire, Niamey, Niger
| | | | - William W. Godwin
- Francis I. Proctor Foundation, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Anna de Hostos Barth
- Francis I. Proctor Foundation, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Kieran S. O’Brien
- Francis I. Proctor Foundation, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Thomas M. Lietman
- Francis I. Proctor Foundation, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Catherine E. Oldenburg
- Francis I. Proctor Foundation, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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5
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Minter A, Pellis L, Medley GF, Hollingsworth TD. What Can Modeling Tell Us About Sustainable End Points for Neglected Tropical Diseases? Clin Infect Dis 2021; 72:S129-S133. [PMID: 33905477 PMCID: PMC8201563 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciab188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
As programs move closer toward the World Health Organization (WHO) goals of reduction in morbidity, elimination as a public health problem or elimination of transmission, countries will be faced with planning the next stages of surveillance and control in low prevalence settings. Mathematical models of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) will need to go beyond predicting the effect of different treatment programs on these goals and on to predicting whether the gains can be sustained. One of the most important challenges will be identifying the policy goal and the right constraints on interventions and surveillance over the long term, as a single policy option will not achieve all aims—for example, minimizing morbidity and minimizing costs cannot both be achieved. As NTDs move toward 2030 and beyond, more nuanced intervention choices will be informed by quantitative analyses which are adapted to national context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Minter
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Lorenzo Pellis
- Department of Mathematics, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.,The Alan Turing Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Graham F Medley
- Centre for Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - T Déirdre Hollingsworth
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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6
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Blumberg S, Borlase A, Prada JM, Solomon AW, Emerson P, Hooper PJ, Deiner MS, Amoah B, Hollingsworth TD, Porco TC, Lietman TM. Implications of the COVID-19 pandemic in eliminating trachoma as a public health problem. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2021; 115:222-228. [PMID: 33449114 PMCID: PMC7928550 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/traa170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 11/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Progress towards elimination of trachoma as a public health problem has been substantial, but the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has disrupted community-based control efforts. Methods We use a susceptible-infected model to estimate the impact of delayed distribution of azithromycin treatment on the prevalence of active trachoma. Results We identify three distinct scenarios for geographic districts depending on whether the basic reproduction number and the treatment-associated reproduction number are above or below a value of 1. We find that when the basic reproduction number is <1, no significant delays in disease control will be caused. However, when the basic reproduction number is >1, significant delays can occur. In most districts, 1 y of COVID-related delay can be mitigated by a single extra round of mass drug administration. However, supercritical districts require a new paradigm of infection control because the current strategies will not eliminate disease. Conclusions If the pandemic can motivate judicious, community-specific implementation of control strategies, global elimination of trachoma as a public health problem could be accelerated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth Blumberg
- Francis I Proctor Foundation, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Joaquin M Prada
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Anthony W Solomon
- Department of Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Paul Emerson
- International Trachoma Initiative, Task Force for Global Health, Decatur, GA, USA
| | - Pamela J Hooper
- International Trachoma Initiative, Task Force for Global Health, Decatur, GA, USA
| | - Michael S Deiner
- Francis I Proctor Foundation, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Benjamin Amoah
- Lancaster Medical School, Lancaster University, Bailrigg, Lancaster, UK
| | | | - Travis C Porco
- Francis I Proctor Foundation, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Thomas M Lietman
- Francis I Proctor Foundation, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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7
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Insights from mathematical modelling and quantitative analysis on the proposed 2030 goals for trachoma. Gates Open Res 2021; 3:1721. [PMID: 34027309 PMCID: PMC8111938 DOI: 10.12688/gatesopenres.13086.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Trachoma is a neglected tropical disease and the leading infectious cause of blindness worldwide. The current World Health Organization goal for trachoma is elimination as a public health problem, defined as reaching a prevalence of trachomatous inflammation-follicular below 5% in children (1-9 years) and a prevalence of trachomatous trichiasis in adults below 0.2%. Current targets to achieve elimination were set to 2020 but are being extended to 2030. Mathematical and statistical models suggest that 2030 is a realistic timeline for elimination as a public health problem in most trachoma endemic areas. Although the goal can be achieved, it is important to develop appropriate monitoring tools for surveillance after having achieved the elimination target to check for the possibility of resurgence. For this purpose, a standardized serological approach or the use of multiple diagnostics in complement would likely be required.
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8
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Insights from mathematical modelling and quantitative analysis on the proposed 2030 goals for trachoma. Gates Open Res 2021; 3:1721. [PMID: 34027309 DOI: 10.12688/gatesopenres.13086.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Trachoma is a neglected tropical disease and the leading infectious cause of blindness worldwide. The current World Health Organization goal for trachoma is elimination as a public health problem, defined as reaching a prevalence of trachomatous inflammation-follicular below 5% in children (1-9 years) and a prevalence of trachomatous trichiasis in adults below 0.2%. Current targets to achieve elimination were set to 2020 but are being extended to 2030. Mathematical and statistical models suggest that 2030 is a realistic timeline for elimination as a public health problem in most trachoma endemic areas. Although the goal can be achieved, it is important to develop appropriate monitoring tools for surveillance after having achieved the elimination target to check for the possibility of resurgence. For this purpose, a standardized serological approach or the use of multiple diagnostics in complement would likely be required.
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9
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Borlase A, Blumberg S, Callahan EK, Deiner MS, Nash SD, Porco TC, Solomon AW, Lietman TM, Prada JM, Hollingsworth TD. Modelling trachoma post-2020: opportunities for mitigating the impact of COVID-19 and accelerating progress towards elimination. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2021; 115:213-221. [PMID: 33596317 PMCID: PMC7928577 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/traa171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted planned annual antibiotic mass drug administration (MDA) activities that have formed the cornerstone of the largely successful global efforts to eliminate trachoma as a public health problem. METHODS Using a mathematical model we investigate the impact of interruption to MDA in trachoma-endemic settings. We evaluate potential measures to mitigate this impact and consider alternative strategies for accelerating progress in those areas where the trachoma elimination targets may not be achievable otherwise. RESULTS We demonstrate that for districts that were hyperendemic at baseline, or where the trachoma elimination thresholds have not already been achieved after three rounds of MDA, the interruption to planned MDA could lead to a delay to reaching elimination targets greater than the duration of interruption. We also show that an additional round of MDA in the year following MDA resumption could effectively mitigate this delay. For districts where the probability of elimination under annual MDA was already very low, we demonstrate that more intensive MDA schedules are needed to achieve agreed targets. CONCLUSION Through appropriate use of additional MDA, the impact of COVID-19 in terms of delay to reaching trachoma elimination targets can be effectively mitigated. Additionally, more frequent MDA may accelerate progress towards 2030 goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Borlase
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - E Kelly Callahan
- Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | - Scott D Nash
- Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | - Anthony W Solomon
- Department of Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases, World Health Organisation, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Joaquin M Prada
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, UK
| | - T Dèirdre Hollingsworth
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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10
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Sata E, Nute AW, Astale T, Gessese D, Ayele Z, Zerihun M, Chernet A, Melak B, Jensen KA, Haile M, Zeru T, Beyen M, Dawed AA, Seife F, Tadesse Z, Callahan EK, Ngondi J, Nash SD. Twelve-Year Longitudinal Trends in Trachoma Prevalence among Children Aged 1-9 years in Amhara, Ethiopia, 2007-2019. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2021; 104:1278-1289. [PMID: 33534757 PMCID: PMC8045658 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.20-1365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Trachoma control in the Amhara region of Ethiopia, where all districts were once endemic, began in 2001 and attained full scale-up of the Surgery, Antibiotics, Facial cleanliness, and Environmental improvement (SAFE) strategy by 2010. Since scaling up, the program has distributed approximately 14 million doses of antibiotic per year, implemented village- and school-based health education, and promoted latrine construction. This report aims to provide an update on the prevalence of trachoma among children aged 1-9 years as of the most recent impact or surveillance survey in all 160 districts of Amhara. As of 2019, 45 (28%) districts had a trachomatous inflammation-follicular (TF) prevalence below the 5% elimination threshold. There was a statistically significant relationship between TF prevalence observed at the first impact survey (2010-2015) and eventual achievement of TF < 5% (2015-2019). Of the 26 districts with a first impact survey < 10% TF, 20 (76.9%) had < 5% TF at the most recent survey. Of the 75 districts with a first survey between 10% and 29.9% TF, 21 (28.0%) had < 5% TF at the most recent survey. Finally, among 59 districts ≥ 30% TF at the first survey, four (6.8%) had < 5% TF by 2019. As of 2019, 30 (18.8%) districts remained with TF ≥ 30%. Amhara has seen considerable reductions of trachoma since the start of the program. A strong commitment to the SAFE strategy coupled with data-driven enhancements to that strategy is necessary to facilitate timely elimination of trachoma as a public health problem regionally in Amhara and nationwide in Ethiopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eshetu Sata
- 1Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Andrew W Nute
- 2Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Tigist Astale
- 1Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Demelash Gessese
- 1Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Zebene Ayele
- 1Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Mulat Zerihun
- 1Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Ambahun Chernet
- 1Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Berhanu Melak
- 1Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Mahteme Haile
- 3Amhara Public Health Institute, Research and Technology Transfer Directorate, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Taye Zeru
- 3Amhara Public Health Institute, Research and Technology Transfer Directorate, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Melkamu Beyen
- 4Amhara Regional Health Bureau, Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Adisu Abebe Dawed
- 4Amhara Regional Health Bureau, Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Fikre Seife
- 5Federal Ministry of Health, Disease Prevention and Control Directorate, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Zerihun Tadesse
- 1Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Jeremiah Ngondi
- 6RTI International, International Development (Global Health), London, United Kingdom
| | - Scott D Nash
- 2Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Atlanta, Georgia
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Blumberg S, Borlase A, Prada JM, Solomon AW, Emerson P, Hooper PJ, Deiner MS, Amoah B, Hollingsworth D, Porco TC, Lietman TM. Implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on eliminating trachoma as a public health problem. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2020. [PMID: 33140063 PMCID: PMC7605574 DOI: 10.1101/2020.10.26.20219691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Background: Progress towards elimination of trachoma as a public health problem has been substantial, but the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted community-based control efforts. Methods: We use a susceptible-infected model to estimate the impact of delayed distribution of azithromycin treatment on the prevalence of active trachoma. Results: We identify three distinct scenarios for geographic districts depending on whether the basic reproduction number and the treatment-associated reproduction number are above or below a value of one. We find that when the basic reproduction number is below one, no significant delays in disease control will be caused. However, when the basic reproduction number is above one, significant delays can occur. In most districts a year of COVID-related delay can be mitigated by a single extra round of mass drug administration. However, supercritical districts require a new paradigm of infection control because the current strategies will not eliminate disease. Conclusion: If the pandemic can motivate judicious, community-specific implementation of control strategies, global elimination of trachoma as a public health problem could be accelerated.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Joaquin M Prada
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, UK
| | - Anthony W Solomon
- Department of Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Paul Emerson
- International Trachoma Initiative, The Task Force for Global Health, USA
| | - Pamela J Hooper
- International Trachoma Initiative, The Task Force for Global Health, USA
| | | | - Benjamin Amoah
- Lancaster Medical School, Lancaster University, Bailrigg, Lancaster, UK
| | | | - Travis C Porco
- Francis I Proctor Foundation, UCSF, USA.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, UCSF, USA
| | - Thomas M Lietman
- Francis I Proctor Foundation, UCSF, USA.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, UCSF, USA.,Institute for Global Health Sciences, UCSF, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, UCSF, USA
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