The Council of Ministers approved funding for the Ministry of Health for 2026 for the purchase of a varicella vaccine as a mandatory immunization for children aged 12-15 months, included in the Immunization Calendar.
Funding has also been approved for the purchase of a vaccine against infections caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) as a targeted immunization for pregnant women during the period from the 24th to the 36th gestational week.
The proposals for the inclusion of new vaccines are from the National Expert Council on Immunizations. The necessary regulatory changes have been made in Ordinance No. 15 on immunizations in Bulgaria.
Regarding varicella:
- One of the most contagious diseases.
- Mandatory immunization from July this year.
- Free of charge.
- Mandatory for those born after January 1, 2025, in a two-dose schedule.
Regarding RSV:
- A common respiratory virus.
- Causes mild symptoms to severe illness in babies.
- Vaccination of pregnant women is essential.