Successful Eradication Of Yaws In Tamil Nadu, India: A Model Programme
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Abstract
Background: Treponema pallidum subspecies pertenue is the cause of Yaws, a chronic infectious non-venereal disease that mostly affects underprivileged populations. It mainly affects tribal tribes in remote forested areas of India.
Methods: The Yaws Eradication programme (YEP) was initiated in India in 1996, targeting endemic states. It included case detection, multi-level monitoring, treating contacts and cases concurrently, and providing comprehensive health education.
Results: After 2000, there was a steady decline in the number of reported instances of Yaws. India became an elimination country in 2004 after three years with no cases reported. In May 2016, the World Health Organisation declared India to be Yaws-free.
Discussion: Yaws, once endemic in India, has been successfully eradicated through a comprehensive national program. This achievement adds to India’s track record of eradicating infectious diseases and demonstrates the effectiveness of focused efforts and community involvement.