Assoc. Prof. Lyubomir Kirov: No Signs of Flu Wave, Situation Remains Calm

The epidemiological situation in Bulgaria at the beginning of December remains stable, with growing public interest in flu vaccination, Assoc. Prof. Lyubomir Kirov, Chairman of the National Association of General Practitioners, told BNT on December 9.

“We have entered December much more safely than we do the budget,” Kirov joked, noting that the current epidemiological picture is calm.

According to him, there is no indications of a flu wave starting:

“Last night I conducted a quick epidemiological survey with my colleagues. At the moment, there is no wave, nor the beginning of a flu epidemic. There are no such data,” he said.

Kirov explained that isolated cases are rare, and other seasonal viruses are circulating at typical levels for this time of year. He also noted that the warmer December weather is helping limit the spread of viruses.

He highlighted that the significant increase in flu vaccinations is also contributing to the calmer situation:

“Flu vaccination in Bulgaria is showing a very positive upward trend, which is having a real impact.”

On the topic of vaccine supply, Kirov said:

“It would be a waste to order too many vaccines, only to have them go unused. They are for the season only, and if not used, they become redundant.”

Kirov also addressed the financial framework of the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF):

“In the previous budget, general practitioners were not considered at all. I hope that now payment will cover absolutely everyone,” he said, adding that interest in the specialty has increased over the past two years.

When asked about a potential increase in the patient fee, he replied:

“We have proposed it, and I believe it is unfair to present the same issue every 2–3 months to the same people. Now they should take note and act. I hope this will happen.”