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[Influenza in Poland in 2003]

Krzysztof Kuszewski1, Lidia B Brydak, Magdalena Machała

  • 1Zakład Epidemiologii, Państwowego Zakładu Higieny, ul. Chocimska 24, 00-791 Warszawa. kkuszewski@pzh.gov.pl

Przeglad Epidemiologiczny
|September 30, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Influenza activity surged in Poland in 2003 after two years of low incidence, with over 1.2 million cases reported. Most cases occurred in children, and influenza-like illness led to 141 deaths, primarily among the elderly.

Area of Science:

  • Epidemiology
  • Virology
  • Public Health

Context:

  • Poland experienced low influenza incidence for two years prior to 2003.
  • Influenza-like illness (ILI) surveillance is crucial for monitoring disease activity.

Purpose:

  • To report on the epidemiology and virology of influenza in Poland during the 2003 season.
  • To analyze the incidence, severity, and characteristics of influenza cases in Poland.

Summary:

  • In 2003, Poland registered 1,216,285 ILI cases, a significant increase from previous years, with an overall incidence of 3,184.4 per 100,000 population.
  • Children under 15 represented 41.7% of cases. Hospitalization was required for 0.26% of patients, and 141 deaths (0.12% mortality) were attributed to influenza, predominantly in individuals over 70.
  • Influenza A (H3N2) was the most common subtype isolated (15 strains), alongside A(H1N1) (3 strains) and one B strain. All strains were antigenically similar to the 2002/03 and 2003/04 vaccine recommendations.

Impact:

  • This study highlights the significant resurgence of influenza in Poland and identifies key demographic groups affected.
  • Findings underscore the importance of influenza vaccination, particularly for vulnerable populations like children and the elderly.
  • The antigenic similarity of circulating strains to vaccine components suggests continued vaccine effectiveness.

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