Flu Cases Surge in Bulgaria: blagoevgrad Joins Haskovo and Vidin in Epidemic Threat
The flu season in Bulgaria is intensifying,with a third region now teetering on the edge of an epidemic. Following Haskovo and Vidin, Blagoevgrad is witnessing a dramatic rise in flu and respiratory disease cases.
In Blagoevgrad, the flu is predominantly affecting young children, mirroring trends observed in Haskovo and Vidin. Despite the surge, schools and hospitals in the region have yet to feel the full pressure of the contagion. However, the situation remains precarious.
In Haskovo, women’s and children’s consultations, prophylactic vaccines, and hospital visits have already been suspended.Vidin is set to follow suit,with similar measures taking effect from Monday.
Rositsa demireva, a mother from the region, shared her experience after her 6-year-old daughter recovered from the flu. “We lowered the temperature, the cough started,” she recounted, highlighting the challenges families face during this outbreak.
The table below summarizes the current situation in the affected regions:
| Region | Status | Key Measures |
|——————|——————————–|———————————————–|
| Haskovo | Epidemic levels reached | Suspended consultations, vaccines, and visits|
| Vidin | Pre-epidemic | Measures to begin Monday |
| Blagoevgrad | Approaching epidemic levels | Monitoring ongoing |
As the flu season continues to escalate, authorities are urging vigilance. Stay informed and take preventive measures to protect yourself and your loved ones. For more updates on the flu situation in Bulgaria, visit Novinite.Rising Flu Cases Among Children in Haskovo: Schools Implement Strict measures
In Haskovo, a surge in flu cases among children has prompted schools to take immediate action. Dr. Nikolay nikolov,a local pediatrician,reports that dozens of children are visiting his office daily,not only for the flu but also for other viruses. ”this bouquet gives a really high morbidity.fortunately, we don’t have many complications,” he notes.
Children aged 4 to 12 are the most affected, with nearly 13% of students absent in one school visited by a bTV team. in a single class at Vasil Levski Secondary School, seven children were missing—a record high. ”Until now, the most were 3 to 4, but we have never reached 7,” says Reni Daneva, a teacher at the school.
Despite the rising numbers, schools remain open with enhanced safety measures. Milena Mihailova, the school’s director, explains, “Disinfection has been strengthened at school. All anti-epidemic measures are being observed.” A morning filter is also in place to monitor students’ health as they arrive.While the situation is concerning, experts assure that a national flu epidemic is not imminent. Prof. Iva Hristova predicts, “The peak of influenza viruses will not be far away.The incidence is growing rapidly, but we expect it to be somewhere up to 2 weeks.” She adds that schools may consider a flu vacation if absenteeism reaches 25%.
Dr. Nikolay Kolev, an internal medicine specialist, highlights the success of the national flu prevention program for adults over 65, stating, “This national flu prevention program for adults over 65 is doing an extremely good job.”
To curb the spread,health officials emphasize the importance of masks for those who are sick and caution for healthy individuals in crowded places,particularly polyclinics. A single flu patient can infect one to two people, making preventive measures crucial.
| Key Points | Details |
|————————————|—————————————————————————–|
| Most Affected Age Group | Children aged 4 to 12 |
| Absenteeism Rate | Nearly 13% in one school |
| Safety Measures | Enhanced disinfection, morning filter, anti-epidemic protocols |
| Expected Peak | Within the next two weeks |
| Flu Vacation Threshold | 25% student absenteeism |
As the flu season progresses, parents and schools are urged to remain vigilant. For the latest updates, follow Google News Showcase.
Rising Flu Cases Among Children: Schools Implement Strict Measures to Combat the Epidemic
Table of Contents
as Bulgaria battles an escalating flu season, the focus has shifted to the younger population, notably children aged 4 to 12. With regions like Haskovo and Blagoevgrad reporting alarming rates of absenteeism in schools, authorities are ramping up safety measures to curb the spread of the virus. To shed light on the situation, we spoke with Dr. nikolay Nikolov,a pediatrician with over 20 years of experience in dealing with seasonal epidemics.
The Impact on Children: Why Are They Most Vulnerable?
Senior Editor: Dr. Nikolov, thank you for joining us. The data shows that children aged 4 to 12 are the most affected by this flu outbreak. Why is this age group particularly vulnerable?
Dr. Nikolov: Thank you for having me. Children in this age group are more susceptible as their immune systems are still developing. They’re also in close contact with each other in schools and playgrounds, which makes it easier for the virus to spread. Additionally, young children often forget basic hygiene practices like covering their mouths when they cough or washing their hands frequently.
Schools on High Alert: Absenteeism and Safety Protocols
Senior Editor: In Haskovo, nearly 13% of students in one school were reported absent due to flu-like symptoms. What measures are schools taking to prevent further spread?
Dr.Nikolov: Schools are implementing several key strategies. First, they’ve enhanced disinfection protocols, ensuring classrooms and common areas are cleaned multiple times a day. Second, they’ve introduced morning temperature checks, or “morning filters,” to identify symptomatic children before they enter the building. Third, they’re strictly enforcing anti-epidemic protocols, such as mandatory mask-wearing and social distancing in classrooms.
The importance of Early Detection and Vaccination
Senior Editor: With the flu vacation threshold set at 25% absenteeism, how critically important is early detection and vaccination in preventing schools from reaching this point?
Dr. Nikolov: Early detection is crucial. Schools and parents need to work together to identify symptoms like fever,cough,and fatigue early on.If a child shows signs of the flu, they should stay home to avoid infecting others. As for vaccination, it’s the most effective preventive measure. Sadly, many parents still hesitate to vaccinate their children against the flu, which is a missed prospect to protect them.
What Parents Can Do to Protect Their Children
Senior Editor: For parents concerned about their children’s health, what advice would you give?
Dr. Nikolov: First and foremost, ensure your child is vaccinated against the flu. Teach them good hygiene practices, like washing their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and covering their mouth when they cough or sneeze. If your child does get sick, keep them at home until they’re fully recovered to avoid spreading the virus to others. Lastly, maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular physical activity to boost their immune system.
Looking Ahead: When Will the Peak Occur?
Senior Editor: Experts predict the flu season will peak within the next two weeks. What should we expect during this period?
Dr. Nikolov: We’re likely to see a sharp increase in cases, especially in schools. Hospitals and clinics may also experience higher patient volumes. The key is to stay vigilant—monitor for symptoms,follow safety protocols,and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen. It’s also important for schools and local authorities to continue their efforts in controlling the spread.
Senior Editor: Thank you, Dr. Nikolov, for your valuable insights. It’s clear that collaboration between schools, parents, and healthcare professionals is essential in managing this flu outbreak.
Dr. Nikolov: Absolutely. Let’s work together to keep our children safe and healthy during this challenging flu season.
For the latest updates on the flu situation in Bulgaria, stay tuned to World-Today-News and follow our coverage on public health measures, expert advice, and regional developments.