Bulgaria health expert stresses importance of influenza vaccination

Epidemiologist and former state health inspector Angel Kunchev has emphasized that influenza vaccination is the only specific tool available to prevent severe complications from the flu. He noted that influenza differs significantly from other current respiratory infections due to symptoms like high fever and body aches, and carries high risks for the elderly, including pneumonia.

Kunchev clarified that while the vaccine does not prevent all respiratory infections, its primary goal is to reduce the risk of life-threatening complications in children and adults. He recommended October, November, and December as the most suitable months for immunization.

Regarding current vaccine supply delays in Bulgaria, Kunchev stated the situation is not critical, as the body takes approximately 20 days to build an immune response after vaccination. This year, Bulgaria expects to provide approximately 450,000 doses for adults and 50,790 doses for children. He warned that flu outbreaks can infect hundreds of thousands within weeks, potentially straining the healthcare system, noting previous instances where up to 15% of emergency medical staff were sidelined by illness.