Chickenpox in Poland in 2011.

INTRODUCTION: A number of chickenpox cases which occur in children indicate the rationality of the use of preventive vaccination. In Poland since 2002, chickenpox vaccination is recommended.

AIM OF THE STUDY: The aim of this study was to assess the epidemiological situation of chickenpox in Poland in 2011 and to compare with the situation in the previous years.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Assessment of the epidemiological situation chickenpox in 2011 in Poland was based on analysis of the data published in the annual bulletins: "Infectious diseases and poisonings in Poland in 2011." and "Immunization Safety in Poland in 2011 (Czarkowski MP. Et al., Warsaw, NIPH-NIH, GIS). In addition, on data from the "Immunization Program for 2011" (Annex to the Statement of the Chief Sanitary Inspector on Oct. 28, 2010).

RESULTS: In 2011. 172 855 registered cases of chickenpox were registered in Poland n 2011. Incidence was 448.7/100. It was lower than in 2010. (480.4/100,000). Highest incidence was in Mazowieckie, the lowest in Podlaskie. Across the age groups the highest incidence (3708.7/100,000) was reported in age group 5-9. The incidence of chickenpox in men (472.3/100,000) was higher than in women (426.5/100,000). In inhabitants of rural areas it was higher (473.5) than among urban residents (432.7/100,000). Number of hospitalized cases was 1 016. Number of people vaccinated against chickenpox amounted to 38 943 people.

SUMMARY: In 2011 there was small decrease in the incidence of chickenpox. But the rising trend is continuing in Poland since 2004. It can be partly be explained by improved surveillance of the disease. Overall high incidence of chickenpox brings problem of widespread vaccination of children.