Prevalence of trachomatous inflammation-follicular and associated factors among children aged 1-9 years in northeastern Ethiopia

Abstract Background Trachoma is the most prevalent eye disease in Ethiopia, especially among children aged 1–9 years and continues to be a public health concern. Nevertheless, in Ethiopia’s rural Jamma district in South Wollo Zone of Amhara Regional State, factors associated with trachomatous inflammation-follicular (TF) among children aged 1-9 years have not yet been studied. Methods A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 616 children aged 1–9 years in rural Jamma district in Ethiopia from January-March, 2019. Data were collected using a pre-tested structured questionnaire, an observation checklist and clinical examination of study participants for active trachoma. The presence of TF and trachomatous inflammation-intense (TI) was clinically assessed by integrated eye care workers using the World Health Organization simplified grading system. Data were analysed using SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) Version 25.0. A logistic regression model with 95% CI was used. From the multivariable analysis, variables with p -value 7 persons) (AOR = 3.50; 95%CI 1.66–8.50), washing of children’s hands and face without soap (AOR = 2.41; 95%CI 1.29–5.18), feces observed in the compound (AOR = 5.10; 95%CI 2.01–10.14), presence of ocular discharge (AOR = 7.23, 95%CI 4.10-12.51) and nasal discharge (AOR = 4.54, 95%CI 1.95–9.26) were significantly associated with TF. Conclusion The prevalence of TF among rural children aged 1–9 years in this study was almost two times higher than the WHO-recommended threshold (TF 7 persons), washing of children’s hands and face without soap, feces observed in the compound, presence of ocular and nasal discharge were significantly associated with TF. We recommended interventions that will help household income to be improved to enable families to be able to construct separate rooms in which to keep animals overnight. Furthermore, we also recommend to policy makers to design mechanisms for enhancement of behavioural change among householders to keep household compounds clean and creating awareness among mothers/caregivers about prevention of trachoma.