Bulgarian specialist predicts three influenza strains for upcoming winter

Infectious disease specialist Assoc. Prof. Trifon Valkov has identified three primary influenza strains expected to circulate during the upcoming winter season: two Type A variants and one Type B variant. A significant mutation has been noted in the A(H3N2) variant, but vaccines for the 2026/2027 season have been specifically adapted to address these changes.

Free immunization programs are available for children aged 6 months to 7 years, with the potential to extend to 17 years for those with specific underlying health conditions. Additionally, free vaccines are provided for individuals over the age of 65. Valkov noted that while recovering from one strain provides strong immunity against that specific variant, it does not offer the same protection against others, which is why the multi-strain vaccine is essential.

Data from the previous year indicates that vaccination can lead to at least a 50% reduction in both infection rates and hospitalizations.