Vaccines & Infectious Diseases

Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It affects millions of people each year in Poland and around the world. The disease can range from mild to severe illness, and in some cases, it results in hospitalization or death, particularly among high-risk groups. Annual vaccination remains the most effective prevention strategy. Each year, several million suspected influenza cases are reported in Poland, with thousands of hospitalizations occurring during epidemic seasons.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory pathogen and a major cause of illness in infants and young children. RSV can also impact older adults and immunocompromised individuals. The virus primarily affects the respiratory tract. Severe cases may require hospitalization, particularly in vulnerable populations. Recent advances have led to the development of new RSV vaccines targeting both pediatric and adult populations at risk.

Pneumococcal disease is caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae. This pathogen can lead to serious infections, including pneumonia, meningitis, and bacteremia. The disease affects people of all ages; however, infants, elderly adults, and immunocompromised individuals are at the highest risk. Invasive pneumococcal disease is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Vaccination remains the primary prevention strategy, and modern conjugate vaccines provide broader serotype coverage and enhanced protection.

COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus and emerged as a global pandemic in 2020. It has profoundly affected health systems, economies, and daily life worldwide. The virus causes respiratory illness ranging from mild symptoms to severe disease, with some cases leading to hospitalization, long-term complications, or death. Vaccination campaigns have been critical in controlling the pandemic, and updated vaccine formulations target emerging variants to maintain protection.