Background: Social attitudes and context have a fundamental impact on the COVID-19 vaccine acceptance. This issue will be challenging the existing Polish public health infrastructure during the planned immunisation program. Material and methods: We attempt to exemplify Poland-specific social background via causal diagram and regional factor analysis based on dimensions (epidemiological potential, ability to act, magical thinking, koronascepticism, information needs etc.) by December 2020 – shortly before vaccination started. Results: We identified several potential target subpopulations and provide possible regional classification. We distinguish clusters of regions where communication strategies should be taken into consideration: 1) extending campaign reach, common social goods and conformism; 2) individual’s profits and misinformation blocking. Conclusions: We are signalling the need for profiling and regionalization in campaigns and propose possible starting points for protocols for various voivodeships when safe and effective vaccines are available in Poland.
The ongoing outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza such as A/H5N1 virus, with its continued evolution and spread to various mammalian species, raises significant concerns about its potential to cause a human pandemic. This editorial examines the recent spillover events to mammals, the economic impact on the poultry industry and the importance of preparedness and preventive measures. The situation in the USA (widespread outbreaks in cows as well as in dairy farm workers) and in Europe (infections in cats and fur animals) highlights the urgency of implementing effective surveillance, biosecurity, vaccination and communication strategies. Particularly, we focus on the lessons learnt (and also those not learnt) from Poland and the rest of Europe in managing potentially being zoonotic outbreaks of unknown origin. Personal experience from these events, though potentially reflecting the subjective views of the authors, highlight the importance of regional preparedness and rapid response to mitigate the risks posed by avian influenza and other emerging infectious diseases. A One Health approach, integrating the animal, human and environmental health sectors with socioeconomic constraints, is crucial for mitigating the risks and preventing a potential global health crisis.
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