From April 6-12 in Bulgaria, 30 new cases of measles were registered, according to data from the National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases. Since the beginning of the year, the total number of cases is 104, significantly more compared to the previous year.
Immunization against measles is mandatory in Bulgaria. Children should be vaccinated after reaching 13 months of age and again at 12 years of age. The acting Minister of Health, Mihail Okoliyski, highlighted the worrying decline in vaccination coverage, which has fallen below 82% and creates a risk of an epidemic. He pointed out cases of fictitious vaccinations and a lack of a second dose.
The disease is easily transmitted through close contact and causes symptoms such as high fever, runny nose, cough, and rash. Upon contact with an infected person, consultation with a doctor is recommended for possible vaccination within 72 hours. The Ministry of Health reminds of the importance of vaccination to protect children.