New government programs: Free flu vaccines for children and home patronage care

Free seasonal flu vaccination for children

The caretaker cabinet has adopted a National Vaccination Prophylaxis Program, which covers children from 6 months to 7 years of age. Immunizations will also be available to adolescents aged 7 to 18 with chronic conditions.

The goal of the program is not only to protect children but also to limit the spread of the virus to their parents and elderly relatives.

Deputy Minister of Health Assoc. Prof. Mihail Okoliyski clarified that funding is tied to the actual doses administered, which ensures the efficient use of public funds.

Patronage care for families with young children

A patronage care program aimed at pregnant women and children up to 2 years of age has also been adopted. It provides for:

• Visits by nurses and midwives to the family home.
• Work by multidisciplinary teams when needed.
• Early diagnosis of potential developmental problems in the child.

One million euros per year have been allocated for this purpose, with the initiative aiming to provide quality support to young parents.

Important healthcare updates

Assoc. Prof. Okoliyski announced that screening programs for colorectal cancer and cervical cancer will start in June. New algorithms have been introduced for managing available resources. Regarding mosquito control, funds from halted public procurement procedures will be redirected to the Bulgarian Food Safety Agency for urgent treatment of the affected areas.