site.btaFlu Epidemic Declared in Seven of Bulgaria's 28 Regions

A total of seven regions have declared a flu epidemic and have introduced temporary measures against its spread, the Health Ministry said on Tuesday. Bulgaria has 28 regions. 

As of Wednesday, an epidemic is in place for Pleven Region, and from January 25 for the regions of Varna, Burgas and Sofia.  

Anti-epidemic measures are in force in Gabrovo and Plovdiv until 28 January and in Smolyan until 30 January.  

In the event of a declared influenza epidemic, scheduled consultations of healthy pregnant women and children, as well as preventive examinations and compulsory immunizations and re-immunizations, are suspended.

Strict daily screening in nurseries, kindergartens and schools is carried out. Visits to hospitals and social institutions for children and adults are prohibited. 

Depending on the progress of the influenza epidemic in a given area, the temporary anti-epidemic measures can be broadened and their period of operation - extended, the Health Ministry said.  

Chief State Health Inspector Angel Kunchev said he expected by the end of the week one third of Bulgaria to have reached epidemic levels.