Debarwa, 24 February 2012 - The second phase program to control the spread of trachoma began on February 15 in Dubarwa sub-zone.

Nurse Gebrehiwot Arefaine, head of the health center in Dubarwa town, indicated that the objective of the program is to control trachoma. He further stated that in 2011, during the first phase of the program, 82% of the inhabitants of the sub-zone received vaccination and that effort is being made to raise the percentage to 98%.

He also said that 81 voluntary village health workers and 9 health professionals are participating in the campaign and called for still greater participation of the inhabitants.

Ms. Merhawit Habtemichael, participant of the campaign, commended the active participation of citizens for the success of the program and indicated that they are working in earnest so that people would not miss the vaccination for different reasons.

Mr. Yared Debesai, resident of Adi-hizbai, explained that the professionals participating in the campaign are going house to house to give vaccination and commended the participation of the local inhabitants.