Pertussis in Poland in 2016

INTRODUCTION: In Poland, the high incidence of pertussis has been maintained for 10 years – in 2016 it was 17,77 per 100,000 population and it was 38% more compared to the previous year. The high percentage of pertussis is still present in those who are older, who may be a source of infection for non-immunized or not fully immunized newborns and infants. The most effective prevention strategy remains the implementation of vaccinations in accordance with the current calendar.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the article is to assess the epidemiological situation of pertussis in Poland in 2016 compared to the situation in previous years, with particular emphasis on the assessment of the status of inoculation of children against pertussis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Analysis of the epidemiological situation of pertussis in Poland was carried out on the basis of individual reports of suspected cases of pertussis sent to NIZP-PZH by regional sanitaryepidemiological stations, data from the bulletin “Infectious diseases and poisoning in Poland in 2016”(2) and the bulletin “Protective vaccinations in Poland in 2016”(3).

RESULTS: In 2016, 6 828 cases of pertussis were registered. The incidence was 17.77 per 100,000 population and was 38% higher compared to the previous year (12.89). The highest incidence of pertussis occurred in people aged 10-14 (88.1), and high in children aged 0 and 3 years - 76.7 and 77.0 per 100,000 population. Of the 6 828 patients with pertussis, 1 640 people were hospitalized (24% of total). In 2016, no deaths were reported due to pertussis.

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS: The increase in pertussis observed in 2016 indicates the persistent circulation of bacteria in the environment and still persistent population sensitivity to infection. The only effective strategy to reduce the number of cases remains the use of vaccinations according to the current calendar and recommendations of experts.