In an alarming development, a six-year-old unvaccinated child has been admitted to a hospital in Wrocław, Poland, after returning from a trip to Africa. This critical situation has prompted health authorities to initiate a nationwide review of childhood vaccination records across the country.

The case was confirmed on March 14 and has reignited concerns about the resurgence of diphtheria, a serious and potentially life-threatening disease, amidst growing vaccine hesitancy among parents. According to Professor Leszek Szenborn, head of the Paediatric and Infectious Diseases Clinic at the University Clinical Hospital in Wrocław, the child's condition is serious but stable at the J. Korczak Paediatric Centre in Lower Silesia. "We diagnosed symptoms of throat and larynx diphtheria. The child returned from a stay in Africa. Unfortunately, they were not vaccinated," he stated.

A Disquieting Echo from the Past

Diphtheria, a dangerous bacterial infection caused by *Corynebacterium diphtheriae*, was once a leading cause of illness and death, particularly before the advent of widespread vaccination in the 1950s. Poland saw tens of thousands of cases annually during that time, with a heartbreaking death toll of up to 3,000. The infection spreads easily through respiratory droplets or contact with an infected person, and the potent toxin it produces can wreak havoc on various organs, leading to severe complications.

The last significant wave of diphtheria outbreaks in Europe occurred between 1993 and 1996, post-Soviet Union collapse, with over 150,000 cases reported in former Soviet states. Some isolated cases found their way into Poland, mainly through migration from high-risk areas.

The Importance of Vaccination

Dr. Paweł Grzesiowski, Chief Sanitary Inspector, emphasized the critical role vaccinations play in combating diphtheria. Since the 1950s, Poland has established herd immunity through its vaccination programs, leading to an impressive decline in cases — only two were recorded in 2024, and a mere one in 2023. Vaccinations are mandatory for children, who are required to receive four doses by age 18 months, with a booster at six years. Adults are also advised to get booster shots every decade.

However, the rise of vaccine hesitancy poses a serious threat. Parents refusing vaccinations can face fines of up to €330, but enforcement remains difficult due to bureaucratic challenges. Dr. Grzesiowski noted that only a small percentage of parents change their minds when confronted with financial penalties, highlighting the need for more effective communication and support for families who are hesitant about vaccines.

Immediate Response and Investigations Underway

In light of the diphtheria case, the Chief Sanitary Inspectorate has launched an epidemiological investigation involving around 500 individuals who may have been exposed to the child, including passengers on international flights during the return journey. Preventive measures, such as administering prophylactic antibiotics to those at risk, are being implemented.

While reassurances have been made that there is currently no immediate threat of a diphtheria epidemic in Poland, the situation remains precarious. Health authorities are investigating how the child was not vaccinated, despite the established guidelines, and are cooperating with relevant EU institutions as required for any diphtheria case.

The GIS emphasizes the necessity of vaccinations to prevent both diphtheria and other serious infectious diseases. With the looming threat posed by unvaccinated individuals and the risk of exposure to pathogens, efforts will now concentrate on reaching out to children who are unvaccinated for non-medical reasons.

A nationwide review of vaccination statuses for up to 7.5 million children will commence in April, marking a proactive step in safeguarding public health. Dr. Grzesiowski stated, "Every vaccination point will be informed about this planned control," underscoring the urgency of the situation.

Stay Informed, Stay Vaccinated!

This incident serves as a critical reminder about the importance of vaccinations. As the threat of old diseases resurfaces, collective awareness and action are more vital than ever.