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Diphtheria in Latvia, 1986-1996
A Griskevica1, P Ching, G Russo
1Department of Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases, National Environmental Health Center, Rìga, Latvia.
The Journal of Infectious Diseases
|February 5, 2000
Summary
Latvia saw a diphtheria resurgence in 1986, with highest incidence in infants and preschoolers. Mass vaccination in 1995 significantly reduced cases by 1996, though further efforts are needed for full disease control.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Diphtheria, a serious bacterial infection, re-emerged in Latvia in 1986 after a nearly two-decade absence.
- Between 1990 and 1996, diphtheria cases peaked in adults aged 40-49, school-aged children, and adolescents, but incidence was highest in infants and preschoolers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of mass vaccination campaigns on diphtheria incidence and morbidity in Latvia.
- To identify key demographic groups for targeted vaccination efforts.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of outreach programs for hard-to-reach populations.
Main Methods:
- Implementation of mass vaccination campaigns targeting adults aged 25-60 starting in August 1995.
- Special outreach efforts for hard-to-reach populations from February to September 1997.
- Monitoring of diphtheria case counts and vaccination coverage rates.
Main Results:
- Achieved 77% vaccination coverage in adults by the end of 1995, leading to a decrease in reported diphtheria cases by 1996.
- By June 1997, 55% of adults had received three vaccine doses following targeted outreach.
- Significant decreases in diphtheria incidence and morbidity were observed.
Conclusions:
- Mass vaccination campaigns are effective in controlling diphtheria outbreaks.
- Continued focus on improving vaccination coverage in adults and children under two years of age is crucial.
- Further strategies are needed to reduce diphtheria-related mortality.