Hepatitis A in Poland in 2017 - epidemic increase cases

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Hepatitis A virus (HAV) outbreaks pose a significant public health challenge.
• Monitoring epidemiological trends is crucial for effective disease control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe and assess changes in the epidemiological situation of Hepatitis A in Poland during 2017.
• To identify trends, affected populations, and potential risk factors for HAV transmission.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of individual case questionnaires and aggregated data on infectious diseases.
• Review of epidemiological investigation reports from sanitary-epidemiological stations.
• Surveillance data from the Department of Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases and Surveillance.

Main Results:

• A substantial increase in HAV cases and incidence was observed in Poland in 2017 (3006 cases, 7.8/100,000) compared to 2016 (35 cases, 0.09/100,000).
• The majority of cases occurred in large cities, with a notable proportion (16.6%) among men who have sex with men (MSM).
• An increasing trend in cases and outbreaks was noted throughout the year, with imported cases primarily from European countries.

Conclusions:

• The findings indicate an ongoing HAV outbreak among MSM in Europe has impacted Poland, with evidence of spread to the non-MSM population.
• Expansion of vaccination recommendations to include MSM is strongly indicated.
• Proactive vaccination of at-risk groups during large international outbreaks is recommended to prevent future surges.