El Salvador has made history as the first country in Central America—and only the second in the entire American continent—to eliminate trachoma as a public health problem. The milestone was formally validated by the World Health Organization (WHO) in July 2026 and highlighted by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) during its 63rd Directing Council, recognizing the nation among five regional territories advancing disease elimination goals.
Caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, trachoma is transmitted through eye and nose discharges and remains the world’s leading infectious cause of blindness. The disease predominantly impacts vulnerable, low-income communities with limited access to clean water, sanitation, and specialized medical care, making its complete elimination a major test of public health infrastructure.
“Today we celebrate an achievement that reflects the best of our region: the ability to transform political commitment, evidence, and cooperation into concrete results for people’s health,” stated PAHO Director Jarbas Barbosa during the recognition ceremony. He emphasized that disease elimination strengthens overall health system resilience and aligns with PAHO’s initiative to clear more than 30 communicable diseases by 2030.
Following the ceremony, Salvadoran Health Minister Francisco Alabi held bilateral talks with PAHO leadership to discuss ongoing initiatives in digital transformation, healthcare modernization, and service expansion. The accomplishment positions El Salvador as a regional model in targeted public health intervention and robust international health cooperation.