Pertussis in Poland in 2015

INTRODUCTION: In Poland, the high incidence of pertussis has been maintained for many years - the fiveyear median for 2005-2009 and 2010-2014 were 5.2 and 5.5 per 100,000 population. In 2015 there was another dynamic increase (by 136%) of incidence to 12.86 per 100 000 population. While the tendency of high incidence of pertussis in the years 2009-2011 (the results of the National Epidemiologic Research of Pertussis), in the subsequent years, ie 2012-2014, was halted, in 2015 there was an increase in morbidity with significantly increased dynamics and different age groups. Still, the most effective prevention strategy is vaccination according to the current calendar and expert recommendations (1) THE AIM OF THE STUDY: The aim of the study is to assess the epidemiological situation of pertussis in Poland in 2015 in comparison with previous years, including vaccine coverage of children MATERIALS AND METHODS: Assessment of the epidemiology of pertussis in Poland was based on analysis of individual reports of suspected cases of pertussis sent to the NIPH-NIH by the regional sanitaryepidemiological stations, data from the bulletin “Infectious diseases and poisonings in Poland in 2015” (2) and bulletin “Immunizations in Poland in 2015 “ (3). SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS: The significant increase in pertussis disease observed in 2015 indicates the persistent circulation of bacteria in the environment and the continuing susceptibility of the population to infection. Still, the only effective strategy for reducing the incidence of disease remains the use of vaccines according to the current calendar and recommendations of experts