Blagoevgrad hospitals report rise in summer gastrointestinal viruses

Infectious disease specialists in Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria, report an increase in summer viruses, primarily gastrointestinal infections. The infectious disease department at MBAL Blagoevgrad is nearly at capacity, with only two beds remaining available.

Dr. Rumen Novoselski, head of the infectious disease department, noted that while the level of gastrointestinal infections is not unusual for the season, there is a noticeable rise in morbidity. Common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, loss of appetite, and occasionally fever.

Medical professionals warn that these viruses can cause rapid dehydration and a dangerous loss of electrolytes. Some patients have arrived at the hospital in life-threatening conditions due to severe dehydration. Doctors advise seeking medical assistance promptly upon the onset of symptoms rather than waiting for them to pass, as oral rehydration can be difficult when vomiting is frequent.