Dobrich district declares flu epidemic

Following an analysis of the epidemic situation, a decision has been taken to declare an influenza epidemic and introduce temporary anti-epidemic measures on the territory of Dobrich district for a period from 5 to 12 February inclusive, the Regional Health Inspectorate said on February 2.

The number of people with acute respiratory illnesses in Dobrich district is growing intensively. FMore than 195 cases per 10,000 people were registered for the past week. The highest incidence is in children from the age of 0 to 4 years old – 1,145 per 10,000. It is over 876 per 10,000 in the age group of 5 to 14 years old, and in adolescents and young people up to 29 years old, it is 230 per 10,000.

Out of 34 samples from outpatients and hospitalized patients sent to the National Reference Laboratory for testing, five were positive for influenza A virus and five were positive for other respiratory viruses.

According to the Regional Education Department in Dobrich, about 15% of students in the district are absent from school.

Strict daily checks of children’s overall health upon arrival are conducted in childcare facilities and schools, and those with symptoms of respiratory illness are returned home. Sick staff are also not allowed in. Disinfection of the premises is being stepped up.

Scheduled consultations of healthy pregnant women and children, routine medical check-ups and immunizations, and visits to hospitals and nursing homes are suspended by order of the Director of the Regional Health Inspectorate.

RHI in Dobrich recommends that all persons with flu symptoms stay indoors and limit their contacts, especially with young children, pregnant women and the elderly. Wearing a protective mask is also recommended, especially when crowding outside doctors' surgeries.