Poland is currently grappling with what health officials are calling one of the severest influenza epidemics in recent history. According to data from the Head Sanitary Inspectorate (Główny Inspektorat Sanitarny, GIS), around 1,000 individuals have died from influenza and its complications since the onset of the epidemic last September, nearly three times the number recorded during the previous flu season. Deaths continue to climb amid reports of approximately 2 to 2.5 million cases of influenza, significantly impacting healthcare services across the country.
Since the flu season commenced, GIS has noted close to 1 million reported cases of flu through its health centers. Yet experts believe the real figure could be as high as 2.5 million, primarily based on the number of prescriptions for antiviral drugs issued.
“This year’s flu wave is markedly different from last year’s. We are recording at least three times the number of cases and more death reports,” stated Dr. Paweł Grzesiowski, the Chief Sanitary Inspector, during recent press briefings.
Flu complications can be dire, leading to pneumonia, respiratory failure, and death, particularly among vulnerable populations such as the elderly, those with chronic health conditions, and children. Dr. Agnieszka Mastalerz-Migas, National Consultant for Family Medicine, emphasized several factors contributing to the current uptick. “A low vaccination rate alongside cyclical fluctuations of flu epidemics fundamentally affects our current health crisis. Following the low-incident seasons, we often see sharp increases,” she explained.
Vaccination remains the cornerstone of flu prevention, with experts advocating for widespread immunization. “The flu vaccine may not entirely eliminate the risk of infection, but it significantly reduces it. Those who are vaccinated experience milder and shorter illnesses, with lower risks of complications,” Dr. Mastalerz-Migas added. Vaccination is particularly encouraged for several groups including:
- Individuals with chronic illnesses
- Older adults aged 55 and above
- Healthcare workers and personnel associated with care facilities
- Healthy children aged 6 months to 18 years
Meanwhile, experts continue to highlight enhanced preventive measures. The GIS has recommended general hygiene practices such as wearing masks, hand washing, and quarantining symptomatic individuals. “We must not underestimate the flu; it is far more serious than many might perceive,” urged health officials.
Recent interviews with health professionals have revealed the significant ramifications of Poland’s low vaccination coverage, reported at approximately 5%. A staggering 97% of those diagnosed with influenza this season were not vaccinated. “We lack what is called the vaccination culture, and this hampers containment efforts. The flu virus has not been as aggressive for many years, and now, with additional viruses circulating less aggressively, the influenza strain attacks with renewed vigor,” explained Professor Miłosz Parczewski, a national expert on infectious diseases.
Despite the intense pressure from the current epidemic, it’s not too late for high-risk individuals to receive the vaccine, noted health experts. “Although winter is ending and the peak infections are nearing, individuals particularly at risk still have opportunities to be vaccinated, which can lessen the severity of their illness,” Dr. Zajkowska reasoned.
Poland continues to face challenges not only with vaccination rates but also public awareness concerning flu treatment and prevention. A recent survey indicated alarming trends: nearly 40% of Poles check their temperature only when symptoms arise, delaying timely treatment. “Our findings highlight the need for greater health education, particularly about the importance of monitoring health during flu season,” noted Kataryna Linette from UCE RESEARCH.
This year’s flu epidemic has revealed the weaknesses within the public health response and the urgent need for systematic changes. Experts agree on the necessity of improving health education, particularly around vaccination and monitoring symptoms to mitigate future risks. The multi-faceted approach involves reinforcing vaccination campaigns, ensuring vulnerable populations are adequately informed and prepared before subsequent flu seasons. Recognizing and addressing these challenges is not just important; it is fundamental to safeguarding public health moving forward.