Health Minister: We will push for free flu vaccines for children up to 10 years old

Outgoing Health Minister Silvi Kirilov will push for the introduction of a free influenza vaccine for children up to 10 years of age. He stated this during an interview with BNT.

According to him, the primary and most effective way to prevent influenza is immunization. It should be administered at least two months in advance. As an additional measure, he pointed to maintaining an appropriate behavioral regime, including self-isolation for individuals with flu-like symptoms.

Kirilov specified that the peak of the flu wave is expected at the end of the month. Once the virus is already circulating in the population, there is no objective possibility to stop it completely, he added. He further clarified that collective immunity is therefore of key importance. Currently, the H3N2 influenza virus has been proven in the country, having been identified by the National Reference Laboratory. As an alternative measure, the minister also suggested limiting social contacts.

He further explained that regional health inspectorates maintain daily contact with the Chief State Health Inspector. In the event of a potential flu epidemic declaration, the order will be coordinated with him. At present, however, there are no grounds for declaring a flu epidemic in the country. Health authorities monitor the situation daily based on several morbidity indicators.

Regarding the varicella vaccine, Kirilov emphasized that there is no resistance from parents. He added that including it as a mandatory vaccine is an extremely positive step.

The minister identified the verification of drug samples for motor vehicle drivers as a major unfinished task from his mandate. According to him, the problem has been localized, but additional work remains for the next team.

Kirilov also commented on the construction of the National Children’s Hospital in Sofia, comparing it to the one in Burgas, which is nearing its opening. He noted the differences in scale, terrain, and public support, assuring that the brief for the Sofia hospital is already with the Public Procurement Agency, and a procedure for design and construction is expected to be announced.

The minister also touched upon the topic of the new regulation for hospital catering, emphasizing that the current regulatory framework is outdated and an update involving experts from the NCPHA is forthcoming.

Regarding the waste crisis in Sofia, Kirilov assured that there is no risk to public health. The RHI strictly monitors compliance with the rules, and the director of the inspectorate has already imposed a fine on Sofia Mayor Vasil Terziev for failure to comply with issued prescriptions.