Bulgaria’s Chief State Health Inspector, Assoc. Prof. Angel Kunchev, has warned that this year’s flu wave could strike earlier than expected. Speaking on Bulgarian National Television (BNT), Kunchev said trends abroad suggest a potential shift in the timeline, raising concerns for local health authorities.
According to Kunchev, the flu season has already started unusually early in Japan, where more than 4,500 people have been hospitalized due to complications.
He noted that Bulgaria has already recorded its first confirmed flu case — detected in a child’s sample by the Center for Infectious and Parasitic Diseases — suggesting the country may be entering the preliminary phase of viral spread.
“Typically, we begin seeing isolated flu cases in the second half of October, with activity increasing through November,” Kunchev explained. “By the end of January, infections often reach epidemic levels, but this year that pattern could shift forward.”
While emphasizing that Bulgaria may not necessarily experience the same intensity as Japan, Kunchev confirmed that health authorities are closely monitoring the situation. He added that preventive measures and early vaccinations remain the best line of defense.
Kunchev also addressed the rise in COVID-19 cases nationwide. Although not yet alarming, he said the increase highlights the importance of maintaining vigilance and receiving booster shots where available. “Vaccination is the most effective way to protect against severe illness,” he stressed.
Regarding vaccine availability, Kunchev assured that additional flu vaccine supplies are being distributed across pharmacies and healthcare facilities. “Large quantities have already arrived, and more are on the way,” he said. “For citizens over 65, we have provided 100,000 more doses than last year.”
He added that nasal vaccines for children have increased from 10,000 to 15,000 doses. “I can’t guarantee there won’t be shortages in December,” Kunchev admitted, “but we are continuously adjusting to meet demand.”
The Chief Health Inspector further discussed water safety issues affecting several Bulgarian regions, including Pleven, Veliko Tarnovo, and Burgas. Local health authorities have advised residents to avoid drinking tap water temporarily, though it remains safe for hygiene use.
“Turbidity is the most visible but least dangerous indicator,” Kunchev clarified. “Cloudy water often looks alarming, but it doesn’t mean it’s toxic.” The problem, he explained, stems from heavy rainfall and flooding that cause soil and organic matter to contaminate surface water sources.
Microbiological deviations were also detected in the Burgas region. “In Tsarevo, Primorsko, and Kiten, minimal Escherichia coli levels were found, while Elenite showed higher concentrations,” he noted. Authorities will lift restrictions only after three consecutive negative water tests confirm safety.
Kunchev concluded by reminding citizens that both viral and environmental health risks require vigilance. “With proper hygiene, early vaccination, and attention to safety guidelines, we can prevent outbreaks and protect public health this winter,” he said.