J. Gromkowski Provincial Specialist infirmary in Wrocław confirmed the case of diphtheria in a six-year-old patient. This is the first specified case in Poland in 24 years. A kid who has returned from his vacation in Africa is in intensive care, and doctors are taking an intense fight for his life.
Błonica in Poland – a uncommon but dangerous case
A spokesperson for the hospital, Dr. Janina Kulińska, confirmed information about a patient with diphtheria. - We confirm we have a diphtheria patient. due to the family's welfare, we cannot give any detailed information. We've never had a case of diphtheria in our facility before. Although it is simply a known disease, it has not been present in Poland for a long time, as it is covered by the vaccination calendar," she said in an interview with TVN24.
The condition of the child's wellness is very serious, and the situation recalls the importance of protective vaccination. Błonica, although uncommon in Poland, is inactive a threat, especially in countries where vaccination programmes are insufficient.
What is diphtheria and what are its symptoms?
Diphtheria is an acute infectious illness caused by bacteria Corynebacterium diphtheriae. Its incubation period is between 2 and 5 days, and the course is severe and dangerous. The most common occurrence is the advanced airway diphtheria, which attacks the throat and larynx.
The Chief Sanitary Inspectorate lists the typical symptoms of the disease:
- fever
- throat pain
- difficulty swallowing
- lymph node enlargement,
- grey or black necrotic lesions on the tonsils and mucous membrane of the throat.
In the 1950s, Poland reported any 40,000 cases of diphtheria per year, including 3 1000 deaths. By introducing compulsory vaccination in 1954, the number of cases decreased significantly. The last case in Poland was recorded in 2001.
Vaccination – key to the fight against diphtheria
Mandatory vaccination against diphtheria includes children and adolescents aged 1 to 19 years. Thanks to them, the illness practically disappeared from Poland. However, imported cases, specified as the 1 in Wrocław, remind that the threat inactive exists, especially among unvaccinated people or travelling to regions where the illness is more common.
Experts stress that vaccination is the most effective form of protection against diphtheria. – It is simply a illness that can lead to serious complications and even death. That's why it's so crucial for parents to follow the vaccination schedule," doctors say.
Summary
The case of a six-year-old with diphtheria in Wrocław is the first specified case in Poland in 24 years. Although the illness is uncommon due to widespread vaccinations, this situation reminds us of the importance of taking care of prevention. Doctors call for work and compliance with preventive vaccination recommendations.
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The first case of diphtheria in Poland in 24 years – a six-year-old struggles for life
