First monkeypox cases confirmed in Bulgaria

Two cases of monkeypox have been confirmed in Bulgaria, the health ministry's press office reports on June 23.

As at June 23, 2022, two cases of monkeypox have been confirmed in Bulgaria. The persons are men aged 41 and 44. Both have been hospitalised and are in good general condition. The laboratory samples sent by the hospitals in Sofia were confirmed at the National Centre for Infectious and Parasitic Diseases by specific real time PCR analyses.

Both men reported travelling abroad in the past two weeks, to Spain and the UK, but did not mention having contacts with monkeypox patients. Epidemiological investigations into both cases are ongoing.

Miltary Medical Academy specified that a 41-year-old man was admitted to the Infectious Diseases Ward on 20 June 2022 with suspicions for chickenpox. As a result of the tests carried out, including at the National Centre for Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, the diagnosis of monkeypox was confirmed.

The patient is currently in good condition, with a reversal of the rash. He has been isolated in a private room since his admission to the hospital and all necessary precautions have been taken.