Measles in Poland in 2011.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Vaccinology

Background:

• Poland's participation in the World Health Organization (WHO) Measles Elimination Program since 2001.
• Program goals include maintaining 95% vaccination coverage and robust surveillance of suspected measles cases.
• Reference laboratory confirmation is crucial for accurate diagnosis and program monitoring.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the 2011 measles epidemiology in Poland.
• To evaluate the implementation status of the Measles Elimination Program.
• To identify trends and challenges in measles control efforts.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of reported measles cases and suspected cases from regional sanitary-epidemiological stations.
• Data compiled and presented in "Infectious Diseases and Poisonings in Poland in 2011" and "Vaccinations in Poland in 2011".
• Epidemiological situation assessed based on reported incidence, laboratory confirmation, outbreaks, and hospitalization rates.

Main Results:

• 38 measles cases reported in 2011, with an incidence of 0.10/100,000 population.
• 29 cases (76.3%) were laboratory-confirmed; four outbreaks involved 12 individuals.
• Highest incidence observed in the 25-29 and 30-34 age groups; vaccination coverage varied significantly between primary and booster doses.

Conclusions:

• The measles epidemiological situation in Poland worsened in 2011 compared to the previous year.
• Low numbers of suspected measles cases suggest deficiencies in the national surveillance system's sensitivity.
• Continued efforts are needed to strengthen surveillance and achieve elimination goals.