Tetanus in Poland in 2018-2019

Abstract

Background: Tetanus is an acute disease of the nervous system caused by tetanus toxin (neurotoxin) produced by tetanus bacilli (Clostridium tetani). This disease can be prevented by vaccination. In Poland, thanks to obligatory vaccinations of children and adolescents and high vaccination coverage, the disease has been practically eliminated. Less than 20 cases are recorded each year.

Aim: The aim of the work is to analyze the epidemiological indicators of tetanus in Poland in 2018-2019.

Methods: The analysis of the Polish tetanus epidemiological situation in 2018-2019 was based on a review of data from the bulletins "Infections diseases in Poland in 2018", "Infections diseases in Poland in 2019" and the analysis of the population immunization was made on the basis of data from the bulletins "Protective Vaccination in Poland in 2018", "Protective Vaccination in Poland in 2019".

Results: There are 17 tetanus cases registered in 2019, in 2018 8 cases. The total incidence rate was 0.044 per 100 thousand population and was higher compared to 2018 (0.021). All reports involved hospitalized individuals.

Summary: The few cases of tetanus in Poland occur mainly in people over 60 years of age. These can be linked to the lack of tetanus booster vaccination of adults.

Keywords: 2018; 2019; Poland; basic vaccinations; booster vaccinations; epidemiology; tetanus.