Effect of Biannual Mass Azithromycin Distributions to Preschool-Aged Children on Trachoma Prevalence in Niger: A Cluster Randomized Clinical Trial.

ABSTRACT:

Importance

Because transmission of ocular strains of Chlamydia trachomatis is greatest among preschool-aged children, limiting azithromycin distributions to this age group may conserve resources and result in less antimicrobial resistance, which is a potential advantage in areas with hypoendemic trachoma and limited resources.

Objective

To determine the efficacy of mass azithromycin distributions to preschool-aged children as a strategy for trachoma elimination in areas with hypoendemic disease.

Design, setting, and participants

In this cluster randomized clinical trial performed from November 23, 2014, until July 31, 2017, thirty rural communities in Niger were randomized at a 1:1 ratio to biannual mass distributions of either azithromycin or placebo to children aged

SUBMITTER: Arzika AM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9399865 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature