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[Pertussis in 1998]
1Zakład Epidemiologii, Państwowego Zakładu Higieny, Warszawa.
Abstract:
In 1998 further global increase in reported cases of pertussis in Poland was observed. The total number of reported cases was 2871 including 854 cases reported in 1998 which occurred in 1997. Most of the cases accumulated in first quarter of the year, with subsequent decrease in the second half of the year, to the level below observed in 1997 in the same seasons. So the most evident increase of the incidence of pertussis was present in the last two quarters of 1997 and first quarter of 1998. Observed temporary increase of pertussis incidence occurred without any significant changes in vaccination coverage and does not seem to be related to changes in vaccine effectiveness. In last two years increased incidence of pertussis was observed in all age groups, but in older ones: 5-9, 10-14 increase in incidence was higher (Table III). Major problem in reporting of pertussis in Poland is small fraction of cases confirmed by culture or by ELISA test, which brings possibility of small specificity of diagnostic procedures used.
Insights
Pertussis, or whooping cough, saw an increase in Poland in 1998, particularly in older children. This rise occurred despite stable vaccination rates, suggesting other factors may be influencing pertussis incidence.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
Context:
- Poland observed a further global increase in reported pertussis cases in 1998.
- The total reported cases reached 2871, with a significant portion from the previous year.
- The incidence peaked in late 1997 and early 1998, then declined.
Purpose:
- To analyze the trend of pertussis incidence in Poland during 1997-1998.
- To investigate potential factors contributing to the observed increase in pertussis cases.
Summary:
- An increase in pertussis incidence was noted in Poland, affecting all age groups but more pronounced in children aged 5-14.
- This rise was not linked to changes in vaccination coverage or vaccine effectiveness.
- Diagnostic limitations, specifically a low rate of culture or ELISA confirmation, may impact the specificity of reported pertussis cases.
Impact:
- Highlights the need for improved diagnostic accuracy in pertussis surveillance.
- Suggests that factors beyond vaccination may drive pertussis outbreaks in specific populations.
- Informs public health strategies for managing pertussis, especially in school-aged children.