Severe cough‑causing virus spreads in Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Doctors in Plovdiv have observed a shift from the usual summer enterovirus to an atypical virus that produces a strong, spastic cough lasting for extended periods. General practitioner Dr. Alexander Kalaydzhiev warned that the cough is persistent and can lead to serious complications if not properly treated. He emphasized that self‑diagnosis and self‑medication often delay appropriate therapy, and that antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections. The Ministry of Health regulations prohibit diagnosing or prescribing treatment through online consultations or mobile apps, urging patients to seek in‑person medical evaluation.

The health alert highlights the need for public awareness of the new viral pattern and the importance of professional medical assessment to avoid complications.