F and E of the SAFE Strategy

Facial cleanliness “F” is the critical for the elimination of trachoma as a public health problem. Clean faces interrupt the transmission of infected eye and nasal secretions. By breaking the cycle of reinfection between children, families and households, communities can prevent the repeated 150/200 infections of trachoma as a child that leads to trichiasis and blindness as an adult. This is why health promotion in Australia has focused strongly on Milpa the goanna  and the message “Clean Faces, Strong Eyes.”

However, in order for children and families to keep faces clean and practice Milpa’s Six Steps to Stop Germs, they must have access to functioning hardware, including working taps, showers, toilets, laundry facilities and safe living environments, in homes, schools and community settings. In the Australian context, the “E” of the SAFE strategy, is therefore closely linked to healthy housing and homes, infrastructure, maintenance and environmental health systems.

Minum Barreng’s approach recognises that sustainable trachoma elimination and improved eye health outcomes depend on both behaviour change and the environments in which people live, learn and grow. Our work in this space reflects a commitment to community led solutions, systems reform, and partnerships that address the underlying determinants of health.