Active Trachoma and Associated Factors among Children (Aged 1-9 years) in Haramaya District, Eastern Ethiopia

Abstract

Abstract
Background: Trachoma is a major public health problem in Ethiopia. Though various strategies were implemented, the
problem remains rampant. Little has been known about the burden of active trachoma specifically in a study setting.
Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of active trachoma and its associated factors among children
(aged 1-9 years) in the Haramaya District, Eastern Ethiopia.
Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in children (aged 1–9 years) from August 30 to
October 30, 2017, among children (aged 1–9 years). A multistage sampling technique was applied to select a total of
760 children. Data were collected through parental/ guardian interviews, environmental inspection, and conducting a
standard ophthalmic examination by three experienced optometrists. Active trachoma was measured as the presence of
either trachomatous inflammation follicles or intense. Data were analyzed using STATA software version 17. Both bivariable and multivariable Poisson regression analyses were performed to determine factors associated with active trachoma.
Results: In this study, 27% (95%CI: 23.9, 30.2) of children aged 1-9 years had active trachoma. Traveling more than
30 minutes to fetch water (APR=1.53; 95% CI: 1.13,2.06), lack of latrine facilities (APR=1.22; 95% CI:1.01,1.47),
living with animals in the same house (APR=4.20; 95% CI: 3.18,5.56), unclean face (APR=4.11; 95% CI: 2.46, 6.87),
and presence of flies on the face within 3 seconds of observation (APR=2.15; 95%CI: 1.46,3.16) were found to be independent predictors of active trachoma.
Conclusion: The study revealed that about a quarter of children had active trachoma in the study setting, indicating that
trachoma continues to be a public health concern. Traveling more than 30 minutes to fetch water, lack of toilet facilities,
sharing a home with animals, and the appearance of flies on the face within 3 seconds of observation were factors
associated with active trachoma. Therefore, strengthening interventions that emphasize access to water sources,
adequate facial and environmental hygiene, and latrine availability should be the mainstay to reduce the risks of active
trachoma.
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