What started like blurry visions for many has led to complete blindness in some women of Mushukula Village of Mwandi District in Western Province.   This was brought to light by the Zambia Flying Doctor Service team who have been camped in Mwandi District since Sunday the 26th of May 2024.   ZFDS Ophthalmologist and Eye Surgeon Mr Ndalela Ndalela who examined some patients reported that this vision impairment was due to Trachoma Trichiasis, a disease of the eyes.   This happens when the eyes get inflamed after repeated trachoma infections. Scar tissue builds up on the inside of the eyelid, making the eyelid tight and pulling the eyelashes inwards. When the eyelashes rub the cornea, it causes immense pain and can lead to blindness.   Among the victims are Mrs Kekala, a 66-year-old woman and her niece aged 56. After being interviewed, Mrs Kekala said it all started in 2005 when she started getting blurry visions. Three years later after seeking traditional medicines she completely lost sight and has since been taken care of and helped by her niece.   Sadly, her niece developed the same problem a few years later when she started feeling some discomfort in her eyes. The discomfort later led to blurry vision and sores that felt like a burning sensation and continued for some time.   In a quest to find a solution, she tried traditional herbal medicines that only worked for a short period but eventually went to a clinic where she claimed she was operated on.   A few months after the operation, she started experiencing headaches and sleepless nights before she eventually lost sight of one eye completely.   Another 66-year-old woman from the same village expressed her fear of complete blindness as she's already lost sight in her left eye.   Mrs. Sibitwani complained of eyelashes hurting her eyes since 2000 after which she sought help from the local clinic where she was given ointments to use but no permanent solution.   ZFDS Ophthalmologist Mr.Ndalela Ndalela reported that Trachoma Trichiasis is prevalent in this village as he encountered a number of these cases due to poor health knowledge and no eye services.   He also explained that one of the causes of Trachoma Trichiasis is poor hygiene and sanitation, affecting women more than men. He has since educated the general public to ensure they do regular eye checkups for early detection of any eye diseases including Glaucoma. The team will administer some antibiotics which should be traceable in three months for operations in liaison with the District Health Office.