Is mass vaccination needed in flood-affected areas? There is an important position on this issue

After analyzing the current epidemiological situation in Poland after the floods, experts concluded that there is no need for mass vaccination for all residents of the affected areas. However, the recommendations include immunization for selected groups, especially those exposed to direct contact with contaminated materials and flood water.

Epidemiological situation after the floods - risk assessment

Epidemiological risks in flooded areas arise from the possibility of contact with contaminated water and contaminated materials. As a result of the flooding of various areas and facilities, there is a potentially increased risk of contracting diseases transmitted by contaminated water (e.g., enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli, Shigella, Salmonella, noroviruses, rotaviruses, enteroviruses, intestinal parasites, and, much less frequently, hepatitis A, leptospirosis, typhoid fever). Although there have been no significant increases in infectious diseases in the affected regions, there is an increased risk of diseases such as tetanus, hepatitis A, and typhoid.

From January to September 2024, 232 cases of hepatitis A were reported nationwide, but only 28 cases occurred in the areas most affected by the floods (Opole and Lower Silesia provinces). Diseases such as typhoid and dysentery were sporadic, and most cases were associated with foreign travel.

Tetanus vaccination - key prevention

The most important recommendation is tetanus prophylaxis, especially among those exposed to trauma and those working in flood recovery. Contact with contaminated water is not in itself an indication for vaccination, but post-exposure prophylaxis is recommended for wounds or cuts. Vaccination should be administered according to the current immunization schedule, taking into account the patient's vaccination status.

Emergency workers, law enforcement personnel, volunteers, and residents of flood-affected areas who have not received a booster vaccination in the past 10 years should get vaccinated. It is offered free of charge at local health centers.

Hepatitis A virus - low incidence.

The hepatitis A epidemiological situation remains stable, and the number of cases before the flood was low. For this reason, mass vaccination against hepatitis A is not recommended. Vaccination may, however, be recommended for people who will be exposed to contaminated sewage, flood waste for long periods of time, as well as medical personnel and law enforcement workers.

Typhoid fever - no need for mass vaccination

Typhoid fever, like other enteric diseases, experts say, does not currently pose a threat in flooded areas, due to the low number of cases in the country before the floods. Vaccination is recommended only for those occupationally exposed to prolonged contact with contaminated materials, including emergency and law enforcement personnel.

Based on the current epidemiological situation, specialists do not foresee the need for mass immunization, but encourage prophylaxis in high-risk groups. If sanitary-epidemiological conditions change, the recommendations will be modified accordingly.

Source: MZ