By Diane Weatherup | Development Director
Behavioural change is the foundation of eliminating avoidable eye diseases, such as trachoma, in Ethiopia. Encouraging behavioural change drives a higher proportion of clean faces, an uptake of surgical services and increase latrine utilization in order to limit transmission risk.
A highly effective tool in encouraging change is training communities in the importance of personal hygiene and using latrines rather than defecating outside. Community health workers, local public leaders and teachers play a crucial role in educating communities.
Zerihun works in a large school in Bonke in rural south Ethiopia. He was recently trained by Orbis in basic eye care and the ways to prevent trachoma. He also screens the students for eye diseases, such as trachoma.
Training teachers is a critical part of Orbis’ work in rural Ethiopia to educate children about eye health and prevent trachoma.
Photo: Geoff Oliver Bugbee/Orbis
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