Background Mumps is an acute viral disease transmitted via respiratory droplets, with humans as the only reservoir. Infection spreads easily among children and adolescents, and infectiousness begins before symptom onset. The introduction of MMR vaccination within the mandatory National Immunisation Programme in Poland in 2003 markedly reduced the number of cases and complications.However, surveillance remains essential for evaluating programme effectiveness and the current epidemiological situation. Objective To evaluate the epidemiological situation of mumps in Poland in 2024 in comparison with previous years. Material and methods The analysis was based on data published in the annual bulletins: "Infectious diseases and poisonings in Poland in 2024" and "Vaccinations in Poland in 2024" as well as individual case data from the EpiBaza system. Vaccination coverage for the first dose was assessed using data for the 2022 birth cohort (children in their 3rd year of life), and for two doses using data for the 2018 birth cohort (children aged 6 years). Vaccine effectiveness was estimated using the screening method. Results In 2024, 931 mumps cases were reported (3.6% decrease vs. 2023: 966). Overall incidence was 2.5 per 100,000 (in 2023: 2.6) and remained below the 2015-2019 median (4.3). The highest incidence was recorded in Śląskie voivodeship (3.7; 159 cases), and the lowest in Opolskie and Warmińsko-Mazurskie voivodeships (1.0). The largest numbers of cases were reported in Mazowieckie (183) and Śląskie (159) voivodeships. Eighteen patients were hospitalised (vs. 12 in 2023). Laboratory testing was performed in 2.1% of cases. Conclusions In 2024, a slight decrease in the number of cases was observed, with incidence similar to 2023. Values remained lower than in the pre-COVID-19 period. The increase in case numbers after 2021 may be associated with the restoration of social contacts and transmission of droplet-borne infections. The low proportion of hospitalisations does not indicate increased clinical severity. Continued monitoring of trends and case structure is justified, together with improving the proportion of laboratory confirmation.
Background Measles remains one of the most contagious viral diseases, and its elimination in the WHO European Region requires maintaining high vaccination rates and effective epidemiological surveillance. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, many European countries, including Poland, are seeing a renewed increase in the number of cases. Objective The aim of the study was to assess the epidemiological situation of measles in Poland in 2024, taking into account the vaccination status of the population against measles and the degree of implementation of the World Health Organization (WHO) measles eradication program in Poland. Material and methods The epidemiological situation of measles in Poland in 2024 was assessed using data obtained from the national infectious disease surveillance system, recorded by the local sanitary and epidemiological stations in the Epibaza system. Additional information was obtained from the annual bulletins “Infectious Diseases and Poisonings in Poland” and “Vaccinations in Poland” for the years 2015-2024. Results In 2024, an increase in the number of measles cases was recorded in Poland. A total of 272 cases were reported (incidence rate 0.72/100,000), compared with 35 cases in 2023 (0.09/100,000), representing representing more than a sevenfold increase, largely due to the very low number of cases in the previous year. The rise in reported cases was associated with several measles outbreaks, primarily in the Mazowieckie and Dolnośląskie voivodeships. Altogether, 23 outbreaks were identified. Analysis in relation to the pre-COVID-19 period (2019) indicates a persistently lower incidence rate. In 2019, 1,502 cases were reported (3.31/100,000). Compared with the median for 2018-2022, the number of cases in 2024 was more than eight times higher. The highest incidence was observed among children aged 0-9 years. The increase in cases and hospitalizations coincided with a decline in vaccination coverage below 95%, increasing the risk of local outbreaks. Conclusions Maintaining measles elimination in Poland requires sustaining at least 95% coverage with two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine. This should be supported by continued routine immunization, catch-up vaccination of susceptible individuals, and further strengthening of epidemiological and laboratory surveillance, including molecular characterization of circulating measles viruses.
Background Intestinal tuberculosis is a rare form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis that can mimic other gastrointestinal disorders, such as Crohn’s disease or malignancy, often leading to diagnostic delays. Objective Case report Material and methods Case report Results We report a case of a 39-year-old man who presented with severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and cessation of stool and gas passage. Physical examination revealed cachexia and diffuse abdominal tenderness, while laboratory tests demonstrated elevated inflammatory markers. Abdominal computed tomography suggested small bowel obstruction, possibly due to intestinal torsion. Emergency laparotomy was performed, revealing thickened intestinal loops and enlarged mesenteric lymph nodes. Histopathological examination confirmed granulomatous inflammation with caseation, and sputum culture was positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis, although direct microscopy was negative. Chest radiography demonstrated pulmonary involvement. The patient was subsequently transferred to a tuberculosis reference center for initiation of anti-tuberculous therapy. Conclusions In summary, this case underscores the need to consider intestinal tuberculosis in the differential diagnosis of intestinal obstruction, particularly in patients with chronic symptoms, malnutrition, or suggestive radiological findings. It also highlights the diagnostic limitations of sputum microscopy and the crucial role of histopathological and culture-based confirmation. Multidisciplinary management—combining surgical intervention when indicated with prompt initiation of anti-tuberculous therapy—remains essential to achieving a good clinical outcome.
Cryptosporidiosis, caused by Cryptosporidium sp., remains a significant yet underrecognized cause of diarrhoeal disease in humans and animals in Nigeria, with implications for public health, livestock productivity, and food safety. The parasite’s zoonotic potential, environmental resilience, and the close coexistence of people and livestock in smallholder systems sustain transmission across rural and peri-urban communities. This perspective synthesizes representative evidence published between 2010 and 2025 to examine the epidemiological patterns, transmission pathways, and structural control gaps surrounding cryptosporidiosis in Nigeria’s livestock sector. Reported prevalence frequently exceeds 20% in cattle and small ruminants in several states, with documented contamination of milk, water bodies, and abattoir effluents, indicating multiple exposure routes. Despite these findings, cryptosporidiosis remains absent from Nigeria’s national zoonotic priority framework, and surveillance across veterinary, environmental, and public health sectors remains fragmented. This article argues that sustainable control requires formal integration of cryptosporidiosis into Nigeria’s existing One Health architecture. Key priorities include coordinated human–animal surveillance, targeted environmental monitoring in high-risk zones, strengthening molecular diagnostic capacity, and community-based livestock hygiene interventions. Recognizing cryptosporidiosis as a zoonotic priority would enhance food safety, protect vulnerable populations, and strengthen national health security. By repositioning the disease within a structured One Health framework, Nigeria can move from passive recognition of endemic transmission to proactive prevention and risk reduction.
Objective This systematic review aimed to assess the preparedness of Polish healthcare workers (HCWs) during the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on exposure to SARS-CoV-2, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), infection prevention and control (IPC) training, and vaccination coverage. In addition, the review aimed to evaluate actual exposure to SARS‑CoV‑2, as reflected by seroprevalence of anti‑SARS‑CoV‑2 antibodies among HCWs. Material and methods Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search of Embase, Cochrane, MEDLINE/PubMed, and Polish-language journals was conducted. Studies involving HCWs in Poland were included if they reported on seroprevalence, PPE use, IPC training, or vaccination status prior to the implementation of the vaccination program. A total of 22 studies met the inclusion criteria. Results Seroprevalence among HCWs ranged from 6.2% to 70%, with a median of 32.9%, indicating significant occupational exposure. Self-reported awareness of IPC principles was high (78–88%), but in one of the included studies, only 1.4% of participants reported mask use consistent with WHO guidance. Half of the surveyed HCWs reported insufficient access to PPE. Vaccination coverage among HCWs reached of 85.2%, higher than in the general population. Conclusions The preparedness to protect HCWs in Poland during the early phase of the COVID‑19 pandemic revealed gaps at both the system level and in individual protective practices. Despite high vaccination coverage, ensuring the safety of HCWs requires the simultaneous strengthening of resources and organisational measures as well as supporting adherence to protective behaviours (e.g., mask/PPE use). An integrated approach to IPC and reliable PPE availability is essential for health‑system resilience in the event of future crises.
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a major challenge in oncology because systemic anticancer treatment may trigger HBV reactivation (HBVr). This narrative review summarizes current knowledge on the incidence, mechanisms, risk factors and prevention of HBVr in patients receiving chemotherapy or other immunosuppressive regimens. HBVr occurs in approximately 20-50% of HBV-infected patients treated with cytostatics, with the highest risk in hematological malignancies and during anti-CD20 antibody therapy or allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Clinically, HBVr ranges from asymptomatic alanine aminotransferase flares to fulminant liver failure, causes treatment disruption in up to two-thirds of affected patients, and is associated with mortality of about 5%, rising to nearly 30% in hepatocellular carcinoma. The pathophysiology of HBVr involves persistence of intranuclear cccDNA, loss of T- and B-cell immune surveillance and direct pro-replicative effects of selected drugs, including strong glucocorticosteroids, TNF-α antagonists, anthracyclines, tyrosine kinase inhibitors and CAR-T-cell therapies. We compare key recommendations from European guidance (EASL) and Polish national recommendations regarding screening strategies, HBVr risk stratification, and indications for nucleos(t)ide analogue prophylaxis. Effective prevention of HBV reactivation starts with pre-treatment screening, followed by antiviral prophylaxis with high resistance barrier agents or structured virological surveillance in carefully selected clinical scenarios with feasible, reliable monitoring.
Background Being a solid organ transplant recipient is associated with increased risk for infections. Vaccinations are considered potent preventive procedures against numerous infections. Objective The subject of our study was to assess the vaccination coverage in solid organ transplant recipients remaining under the long-term post-transplant care at the largest Polish transplant center. Material and methods A questionnaire on realization of vaccinations included in the operative Polish Vaccination Programme was completed by adult recipients of solid organ transplantation during routine outpatient visits. Results One hundred ten patients were included. In 18% of patients, vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 has never been performed, and booster doses of the vaccine received 47% of patients. 15% of patients reported annual vaccination againts influenza, 30% has been vaccinated against influenza less often than anually, and in 55% vaccination against influenza has never been performed. In 7% of patients, vaccination against diphteria, tetanus and pertussis has been done within recent 10 years. 1 patient (1%) reported vaccination against Streptococcus pneumoniae. No patient reported vaccinations against Haemophilus influenzae, Neisseria meningitidis, zoster, or RSV. Conclusions Our results show that solid organ transplant recipients are undervaccinated. Urgent actions are needed to improve the current state.
Background The dengue virus belongs to the genus Flavivirus in the Flaviviridae family and is transmitted mainly by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. It is a single-stranded positive-sense RNA virus existing as four serotypes (DEN-1-4). Hematological abnormalities are among characteristic laboratory findings in dengue. Thrombocytopenia and leukopenia are considered markers of dengue pathophysiology, reflecting bone marrow suppression. Objective The aim of the study was the assessment of clinical profile, complete blood count and biochemical parameters, with particular emphasis on platelet indices, in patients hospitalized for dengue fever. The secondary aim was to evaluate laboratory risk factors for developing thrombocytopenia <100 G/l during hospitalization. Material and methods We analyzed medical records of patients with confirmed dengue who were hospitalized between 2016 and 2024. Inclusion criteria contain: age ≥18 years old and positive dengue NS1 antigen test on admission. The presence of dengue IgM antibodies was not required. Exclusion criteria contain: any chronic diseases, confirmed viral, bacterial and parasitic co-infections. Group differences were assessed using the Student’s t-test, and correlations were evaluated using the Pearson coefficient. Results We included clinical data of n=27 patients, female/male n=18/9 with the mean age of 37.6±10.1 years. All patients had dengue NS1 antigen and n=8/27 (29.6%) had detectable IgM anti-dengue antibodies. The mean duration of hospitalization was 6.04 days. The lowest mean platelet count (108.06 G/L) was observed on the third day of hospitalization. In the analyzed cohort, the most common CBC abnormalities were observed in WBC and NEU (100% of patients), PCT (92.6%), and PLT (63%). Baseline plateletcrit was the only platelet parameter significantly negatively correlated with thrombocytopenia <100 G/L. Baseline AST was the only parameter positively correlated with thrombocytopenia <100 G/L. Conclusions Thrombocytopenia and leukopenia were observed in the majority of patients hospitalized for dengue. Baseline aspartate aminotransferase AST and plateletcrit were the only laboratory parameters associated with the development of more pronounced thrombocytopenia.
Central nervous system (CNS) toxoplasmosis represents one of the most common opportunistic complications in patients with advanced HIV/AIDS infection. A wide range of neurological symptoms may contribute to the clinical presentation of the disease. This paper reports the case of a 29-year-old man with untreated HIV infection, in whom neurotoxoplasmosis led to rapidly progressive, bilateral sensorineural hearing loss and severe disability. Appropriate neuroimaging diagnostics enabled the initiation of effective treatment; however, neurological sequelae, including hearing impairment, persisted. To the best of our knowledge, this type of complication has not been previously described in patients living with HIV and CNS toxoplasmosis.
Trypanosomiasis remains a major neglected tropical disease, largely uncontrolled due to rising drug resistance and the absence of an effective vaccine. Decades of vaccine failure are primarily linked to the parasite's immune-evasion strategy of Antigenic Variation (AV), driven by continual switching of the Variant Surface Glycoprotein (VSG) coat. This review proposes an integrated immuno-epidemiologic framework that moves beyond VSG-focused strategies by targeting conserved functional vulnerabilities and incorporating population-level transmission dynamics. The approach redirects vaccine development toward invariant, indispensable antigens such as the Transferrin Receptor (TfR), Invariant Surface Glycoproteins (ISGs), and Paraflagellar Rod (PFR) components. Antibodies against these molecules can induce conserved killing mechanisms, including iron starvation or disruption of essential membrane functions - regardless of VSG switching. Advances in reverse vaccinology enable multi-epitope and mRNA platforms to encode these structurally constrained targets, while complementary transmission-blocking and vector-focused strategies aim to interrupt parasite development within tsetse flies. A central argument is that partially protective vaccines (PPVs) can produce substantial epidemiologic benefits by lowering parasitemia, shortening infectious duration, and reducing the probability of vector infection. Such effects can meaningfully suppress transmission without requiring sterilizing immunity. A One Health approach, coupled with realistic population-based efficacy metrics, is essential for future vaccine development. By exploiting conserved molecular constraints and integrating immunologic, ecological, and epidemiologic insights, this framework outlines a practical pathway toward effective trypanosomiasis vaccination.
W Strefie Gazy długotrwała blokada, powtarzające się konflikty zbrojne oraz utrwalone niedobory zasobów przekształciły HIV z zakażenia o niskiej wykrywalności w narastający, słabo widoczny kryzys zdrowia publicznego o charakterze humanitarnym. Przed eskalacją konfliktu w 2023 roku oficjalnie odnotowano około 125 osób żyjących z HIV/AIDS w Palestynie, w tym 50 w samej Gazie; liczba ta wynikała jednak najprawdopodobniej z ograniczonego nadzoru epidemiologicznego, stygmatyzacji i niedostatecznego zakresu testowania, a nie z rzeczywiście niskiej transmisji wirusa. Zniszczenie infrastruktury ochrony zdrowia, przemieszczenie personelu medycznego oraz załamanie łańcuchów dostaw doprowadziły do przerwania ciągłości leczenia i uniemożliwiły skuteczne prowadzenie nadzoru epidemiologicznego. Niedobory terapii antyretrowirusowej, uszkodzenie zaplecza laboratoryjnego oraz przerwanie monitorowania pacjentów zwiększają ryzyko wznowy wiremii, zakażeń oportunistycznych i wzrostu śmiertelności, a także sprzyjają dalszej transmisji HIV. Przeludnienie, ubóstwo, przymusowe przesiedlenia oraz osłabienie systemów zapobiegania i kontroli zakażeń dodatkowo zwiększają podatność populacji na choroby zakaźne. Grupy kluczowe – w tym kobiety w wieku rozrodczym, osoby przyjmujące narkotyki iniekcyjnie oraz społeczności przesiedlone – napotykają istotne bariery w dostępie do profilaktyki i opieki zdrowotnej, a przerwanie opieki prenatalnej zagraża zapobieganiu transmisji wertykalnej (matka-dziecko). Do najpilniejszych działań należą przywrócenie ciągłości dostaw terapii antyretrowirusowej, odbudowa nadzoru epidemiologicznego, integracja świadczeń HIV z opieką medyczną w sytuacjach kryzysowych oraz ograniczanie stygmatyzacji.
Hypertension, often described as a “silent killer,” remains one of the leading modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease, stroke, chronic kidney disease, and premature mortality worldwide. Its burden is rising most rapidly in low- and middle-income countries, where health systems are least equipped to respond. Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, faces a particularly severe challenge. Current estimates indicate that approximately 36% of Nigerian adults are living with hypertension, yet awareness, treatment, and control rates remain critically low. As Nigeria undergoes rapid demographic growth, urbanization, and epidemiologic transition, the absolute number of individuals affected is projected to increase substantially, amplifying pressure on the health system and national workforce. This narrative review synthesizes peer-reviewed literature, national surveys, and global health reports published between 2010 and 2025 to examine the burden of undiagnosed and poorly controlled hypertension in Nigeria. We reviewed the trends, sociocultural and structural drivers, health system barriers, and public health responses within the Nigerian context. Evidence highlights the role of dietary transitions, physical inactivity, low health literacy, cultural misconceptions, and limited access to affordable primary care in sustaining the epidemic. The review suggests that effective responses must extend beyond individual behavior change to include community-based screening, workplace health programs, culturally tailored education, sodium reduction strategies, and strengthened primary healthcare delivery, hence framing hypertension as a shared public health and development challenge, rather than solely an individual clinical condition, is essential for reducing preventable morbidity and mortality, protecting workforce productivity, and supporting Nigeria’s long-term health and socioeconomic development.
The use of antibiotics by health care professionals has benefitted mankind to a great extent in achieving adequate control of infections. However, there has been a tremendous rise in the use of antibiotics among medical and dental professionals during the last 10-15years which has given rise to a serious global problem of antibiotic resistance (AMR). There is a significant problem of antibiotic misuse by dental professionals in India, with antibiotics being prescribed inappropriately for clinical and non-clinical reasons. There are no dedicated antibiotic prescribing guidelines for dental practitioners in key Indian policy documents. Despite, many studies reporting inappropriate use of antibiotics by dentists, the full extent of this problem is still unknown and reasons for such prescription patterns are unclear and need further investigation. The present paper attempts to provide the most recent information regarding antibiotic misuse by dentists in India and recommends appropriate measures to combat this public health threat.
BACKGROUND:In 2023 there was a significant increase in the number of syphilis cases in Poland, more than 50% new cases were reported compare to previous year. There is still a problem with the clinical differentiation of reported cases, i.e. new infections, reinfections, and residual positive serological tests confirming the presence of antibodies against Treponema pallidum in previously successfully treated individuals. OBJECTIVE:The aim of the study was to assess the epidemiological situation of syphilis cases in Poland in 2023 in comparison to previous years. MATERIAL AND METHODS:Analysis of the epidemiological situation was based on case-based data from reports of newly detected syphilis cases received from doctors and laboratories and registered in 2023 year. Additionally aggregated data from MZ-56 reports on infectious diseases, infections and poisoning from 2017 to 2019 sent from Sanitary Inspections to NIPH NIH - NRI was used. Also, data about treatment patients in dermatology/venereology clinics in 2020-2023 reported on MZ-14 forms and published in the NIPH NIH - NRI bulletins were used. RESULTS:In 2023, in Poland, 2,968 syphilis cases were reported (diagnosis rate was 7.89 per 100,000 population), including 130 cases among non-Polish citizens. The most often syphilis cases were detected among people below 30 years old (37.1%) and among men (88.1%). In 2023, early syphilis (ICD-10 code: A51) consisted 36.0% of all cases reported to surveillance (1,068 cases) and other syphilis and undetermined (ICD-10 code: A53) consisted 60.6% (1,799 cases). CONCLUSIONS:In 2023, the number of reported syphilis cases increased more than by half compared to the previous year. The percentage of cases of early syphilis (the most infectious), which probably occurred in a short period of time, also remains high, what can influence on transmission this infection in population and lead to increase in the number of new cases.
Diet plays a significant role in shaping climate change, as food production accounts for a large proportion of global greenhouse gas emissions. Animal farming, particularly beef farming, generates a high carbon and water footprint, requiring large amounts of feed, energy, and water. In contrast, a diet based on plant-based products - such as vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains - is much less burdensome on the environment. In response to these challenges, experts from EAT-Lancet have proposed a so-called planetary diet that combines health and climate goals. It involves reducing meat and sugar consumption by half and increasing the share of plant-based products in the daily menu. The latest available literature in this field was analyzed and a standard diet was compared with a planetary diet in order to estimate the potential reduction in greenhouse gas emissions resulting from changes in dietary patterns. Climate change undoubtedly affects food production, availability, nutritional quality, and microbiological safety. Rising temperatures, irregular rainfall, and extreme weather events lead to reduced yields and contribute to more frequent malnutrition among humans. An integrated approach to food and climate policy is needed, based on sound scientific evidence, supporting both human health and the ecological stability of the planet.
BACKGROUND:Recent advancements in orthodontics demands to shape post graduate students to acquire critical thinking skills and abilities so as to perceive high order intellectual capabilities and excellent clinical competencies. However, a very demanding top-down teaching method might not be beneficial. Hence, there is a need to bridge this research gap by conceptualizing academic curriculum with innovative teaching strategies such as the "Buddy System" aiming at creating a stress-free collaborative learning environment with attainable graduate attributes and competencies. OBJECTIVE:To evaluate and assess the feasibility and acceptance of the innovative 'Buddy System" peer-teaching methodology for post-graduate course programme in orthodontic education. MATERIAL AND METHODS:A mixed-method pilot study was conducted among thirty postgraduate students (n=30) in two phases. In Phase I, a structured questionnaire comprising 29 items was developed and validated by senior academic faculty, categorized into theoretical, practical, performance-based assessment, and interpersonal skills (Categories I to IV respectively). Phase II employed completion of the questionnaire and semi-structured interviews following a peer-teaching group activity. In the questionnaire attitudes and perceptions were evaluated using a Likert scale. We measured agreement between fellow teachers and fellow learners with kappa statistic, and data were analyzed with IBM SPSS Statistics version 25.0. RESULTS:The study findings inferred good agreement with a Kappa value of 0.694, 0.683, 0.751 & 0.705 in Category I, Category II, Category III and Category IV respectively in terms of sharing of study materials in the form of books and research projects. The cumulative Kappa value obtained was 0.996 which indicated excellent agreement between fellow teachers and fellow learners (p value< 0.001). CONCLUSIONS:Buddy system could facilitate active learning, collaborative environment and interpersonal support amongst post graduate students, thereby aiding as a desirable integrated peer-teaching model for dental curriculum.
OBJECTIVE. The aim of this study was to summarize the epidemiological situation of infectious diseases in Poland in 2023. The ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the effects of the influx of refugees to Ukraine were taken into account. MATERIAL AND METHODS. We performed a narrative review of studies published in Epidemiological Chronicle, along with data from the national infectious disease registry, Epibaza, which collects data from epidemiological investigations conducted by the State Sanitary Inspectorate. Mortality data were obtained from reports of the Statistics Poland Office. RESULTS. In 2023, 381,244 cases of COVID-19 and 4,329 deaths due to this disease were recorded. The COVID-19 mortality rate in 2023 was several times lower than in 2022, although COVID-19 still accounted for more deaths than other infectious diseases. An "immunity gap" effect was observed following the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in a significant increase in the incidence of pertussis (2.5 times compared to 2022), influenza and influenza-like illnesses, and intestinal infections (enteric salmonellosis +57.9%, campylobacteriosis +64.1%, yersiniosis +74.5%, norovirus +27.8%). A reduction in the incidence was observed for rotavirus infections, for which routine infant vaccinations were introduced in 2021. The increase in pneumococcal disease incidence occurred mainly in the adult and senior population. While the number of new HIV diagnoses among Polish nationals is increasing, the number of cases among migrants has declined, although they still account for 25% of all new diagnoses. The incidence of other sexually transmitted infections also continues to increase (compared to 2022, gonorrhoea +110.6%, syphilis +89.6%). CONCLUSIONS. For many diseases, incidence increased compared to previous years, for a variety of reasons, including the persistent "immunity gap" following the pandemic and the specific nature of the vaccination program. The impact of the influx of refugees from Ukraine was minor.
BACKGROUND:Lyme disease is a vector-borne disease transmitted by ticks of the Ixodes genus, caused by a heterogeneous group of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato. Human infection occurs through a tick bite and its feeding on the skin. Due to the diverse symptoms, diagnosing Lyme disease is challenging and usually involves a two-step serological approach. Currently, there is still no vaccine against Lyme disease, but in 2024, data on the immunogenicity and safety of the VLA15-221 vaccine, which is in the second phase of clinical trials, was announced. OBJECTIVE:The aim of the study is to discuss the epidemiological situation of Lyme disease in Poland in 2023 compared to previous years. MATERIAL AND METHODS:To assess the epidemiological situation of Lyme disease in Poland, data sent to NIPH NIH - NRI by the district Sanitary-Epidemiological Stations and published in the annual bulletin: "Infectious diseases and poisonings in Poland in 2023" were used. RESULTS:In 2023, there were 25 285 reported cases of Lyme disease and 1 155 hospitalizations. This represents a significant increase in cases by 45.58% compared to the previous year. Seasonal variations in case occurrences are evident in distinct quarters, with the number rising from 2 466 in Q1 to 11 626 in Q3, and then declining in Q4 to 5 945. The highest incidence was recorded in the Małopolskie voivodeship (122.9 per 100,000), Podlaskie voivodeship (96 per 100,000), and Warmińsko-Mazurskie voivodeship (95.2 per 100,000). CONCLUSIONS:The number of borreliosis cases returned to pre-pandemic levels but also increased by 22.57% compared to 2019 (20 630 cases), and doubled (95.49%) compared to 2020 (12 934 cases). Seasonality has remained unchanged for years. Usually, eastern Poland (most often the Podlaskie voivodeship) is characterised by the highest incidence, however, in 2023, the highest incidence was recorded in the Małopolskie voivodeship at 122.9 per 100,000.
BACKGROUND:Salmonellosis is a foodborne bacterial disease caused by Salmonella spp. (excluding S. Typhi and S. Paratyphi) and remains a significant public health concern in Poland and worldwide. According to the CDC, the true burden of infection may be substantially underestimated. In 2023, the epidemiological situation in Poland returned to pre-COVID-19 levels, reaching some of the highest values observed in recent years. OBJECTIVE:The aim of this article is to present and compare the epidemiological situation of salmonellosis in Poland in 2023 with that observed in previous years. MATERIAL AND METHODS:The analysis was based on individual case data on salmonellosis, data on foodborne disease outbreaks reported to the EpiBaza and ROE systems, bulletins and articles published by the National Institute of Public Health NIH NIPH - PIB, scientific publications, data from the ECDC website, and data from the Central Statistical Office (GUS). RESULTS:In 2023, 10,348 cases of salmonellosis were reported in Poland, with an incidence rate of 27.4 per 100,000 population; 61.7% of cases required hospitalization. The predominant serotype was Salmonella Enteritidis (71%). A total of 1,220 foodborne outbreaks were recorded, including 396 salmonellosis outbreaks, with 147 imported cases. Nineteen deaths due to Salmonella infection were reported. CONCLUSIONS:In 2023, Poland accounted for 13% of all reported salmonellosis cases in the EU, with an incidence rate higher than the EU average and comparable to pre-COVID-19 levels. The proportion of imported infections remained low, with Turkey most frequently identified as the country of origin in both Poland and the EU. Monitoring imported cases is important due to the risk of introducing rarely isolated serotypes. Notably, an outbreak caused by the rare serotype Salmonella Agama, affecting over 30 individuals, was identified against the background of dominant Salmonella Enteritidis infections in Poland.
Background Food and waterborne diseases are a significant Public Health problem. In recent years, their epidemiology has been influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic and the increasing burden of Clostridioides difficile infections (CDI). Objective Assessment of epidemiological situation of foodborne infections and intoxications in Poland in 2021-2023. Material and methods Routine surveillance data collected by the District Sanitary and Epidemiological Stations (PSSE) through the Registry of Epidemic Outbreaks and data from the bulletins “Infectious Diseases and Poisonings in Poland” (2021-2023) were analyzed. Incidence, etiology, outbreak settings and hospitalization rates were assessed. Results In 2021-2023, an increase in the number of cases of bacterial infections and intoxications was registered (over 90,000 cases, incidence 80.2/100,000) related to an increase in Clostridioides difficile infections (56.4/100,000 in 2023 vs. median 29.5/100,000 in 2015-2019). Also, there was an increase in listeriosis incidence. Among viral infections most prevalent were rotaviral infections, with an increase in 2022 and a decrease in 2023 and incidence between 15.7-20.1/100,000. Between 2021 and 2023, 2,722 foodborne outbreaks were reported, in which 20,102 cases occurred (compared to 2,767 outbreaks and 22,681 cases between 2017 and 2019). Majority of outbreaks were of bacterial etiology (53%), among which the most prevalent were salmonellosis outbreaks, and in this category 80% were S. Enteritidis outbreaks. Proportion of Clostridioides difficile outbreaks was 21.5% (16.5% of all outbreak cases), in medical facilities, outbreaks of this aetiology accounted for 78% of outbreaks. Overall, 27.9% of outbreak cases were hospitalized, most frequently in CDI and hepatitis A outbreaks. Outbreaks occurred mainly in household settings; however, most cases occurred in food-serving facilities and medical facilities. Conclusions In 2021-2023, the number of foodborne infections and intoxications outbreaks was comparable with the pre-pandemic period, but its aetiology-related structure changed (increases in CDI and viral etiology outbreaks. Those results may confirm the need of ongoing surveillance enhancement and laboratory diagnostic capacity development.
