Eliminating Trachoma from FutureLearn

Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more This practical course is for everyone involved, or interested in, delivering health services to eliminate blinding trachoma. It may be of interest to those working in or studying medicine, and will be of special use to those working in neglected tropical diseases (NTD), public health or ophthalmology. Content is focused on the action that needs to take place at a local community level. You can use the hashtag #FLtrachoma to talk about this course on social media.

Topics Covered

Natural history, clinical signs and grading of trachoma
Evidence from global mapping of trachoma
Planning and coordination of trachoma mapping and control activities at community, district, national and global levels
Development of a Trachoma Action Plan
Public health approach for the control of trachoma
How epidemiological data provides guidance for interventions and setting local targets
Practical approaches for the four elements of the SAFE strategy to control trachoma: surgery, mass distribution of antibiotics, facial cleanliness and environmental improvement
S: strategies for community mobilisation, preparing patients, selecting surgical methods, managing post-surgical trichiasis and monitoring outcomes and outputs towards elimination
A: selection of antibiotics, distribution pathways, microplanning local campaigns, addressing barriers and managing coverage
F&E: Understanding influences on behaviour, situation analysis for F&E, assessing sanitation hardware requirements, identifying and engaging with appropriate stakeholders for water, sanitation and hygiene activities
Assessing the validation process for trachoma elimination
Monitoring and evaluation indicators of SAFE interventions for impact and surveillance surveys
Completion of the WHO dossier to validate the elimination of trachoma at national level

Reviews summary

Practical guide to trachoma elimination

According to learners, this course provides a comprehensive and practical guide to eliminating blinding trachoma, particularly focusing on the SAFE strategy. Students find the content well-structured and highly relevant for those working in public health, NTDs, or ophthalmology. The emphasis on community-level action and practical implementation steps is frequently highlighted as a major strength. While some reviews mention wishing for more updated statistics or case studies, the core principles and framework taught are considered invaluable for practitioners.

Clear organization and easy to follow.

"The modules were well-structured and easy to follow, despite the complex topic."

"The content is rigorous and well-presented."

"It demystifies the process of trachoma elimination and provides a clear roadmap."

"The pace was uneven in places, but the core information is solid."

Emphasis on real-world application.

"The focus on community-level implementation is crucial for my work in public health."

"Found the practical examples particularly helpful."

"Provides invaluable insights into the public health aspects of trachoma control."

"I learned how to use practical tools and strategies that I could apply immediately to my work."

Highly relevant for professionals in the field.

"Highly recommend for anyone in NTD control."

"As an ophthalmologist working in endemic regions, this course provided invaluable insights..."

"Very relevant for anyone involved in NTD program management."

"Essential for the field of public health and NTD work."

Deep dive into the core SAFE framework.

"Excellent course providing a clear and actionable overview of the SAFE strategy."

"Very informative course covering all aspects of trachoma elimination through the SAFE framework."

"The breakdown of SAFE into practical steps is fantastic."

"A thorough review of trachoma and elimination strategies. The SAFE strategy is clearly explained."

Some content could benefit from updates.

"The course covers important ground, but some data felt slightly dated."

"While the core SAFE principles remain valid, examples or statistics could be updated."

"Could benefit from more visual aids or video content."

"I wish there were more detailed case studies or interactive exercises."

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Learners who complete Eliminating Trachoma will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Eliminating Trachoma

Topics Covered

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Reviews summary

Practical guide to trachoma elimination

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