Immunizations: RSV vaccine for pregnant women and chickenpox

Following a proposal by the National Expert Council on Immunization, supported by the Expert Council on Obstetrics and Gynecology, as well as the chief coordinator of the Expert Council on Neonatology, a significant change in the field of health prophylaxis is forthcoming in Bulgaria. It is planned to add a targeted immunization against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) for pregnant women. This measure is included in the proposed regulatory changes in the Ordinance on Immunizations in the Republic of Bulgaria, reflecting the growing concern regarding the health challenges associated with this virus.

The draft amendments have been published on the website of the Ministry of Health and are subject to a one-month public discussion, giving citizens and interested parties the opportunity to express their opinion. The targeted immunization will be free, emphasizing the commitment of the health authorities to providing accessible prophylaxis.

According to information from health experts, RSV is a common respiratory virus that can cause a range of illnesses, varying from mild flu-like symptoms to severe complications and even death. Babies under six months of age are particularly vulnerable, as are the elderly over 65 years of age and immunocompromised patients.

The situation is also being monitored by the World Health Organization. According to WHO data, RSV is one of the most common causes of acute lower respiratory tract infections in children, leading to over 3.6 million hospitalizations and about 100,000 deaths in children under 5 years of age each year. Within the European Union, an average of 245,244 hospitalizations caused by RSV are reported each year in children under five years of age, with most cases occurring in children under one year old.

The same draft amendments to the Ordinance on Immunizations also provide for the introduction of the varicella vaccine into the Immunization Calendar of the country, making it mandatory. This measure reflects the aim of increasing immunity against diseases that pose a potential threat to the health of the population.

The financial aspect of the proposed changes is also of significant importance. The projected cost for providing the necessary quantities of vaccines for mandatory varicella immunization and targeted immunization against respiratory syncytial virus is BGN 5,547,000 for 2026. For 2027 and 2028, an increase in coverage among pregnant women is planned, with the total cost of the two vaccines being BGN 6,457,800 annually, as is evident from the reasons for the project.