There have been eight cases of meningococcal infection in the country since the beginning of the year, two of which ended in death. Among the deceased patients is an 11-month-old baby, and a 2-month-old child and a 13-year-old boy are in hospital.
„When it comes to infections, young children up to 7 years old are always the most vulnerable. In cases of meningococcal infection, the patients are again small children. It is unacceptable in the 21st century that children die from diseases that we can prevent with vaccines that have proven effectiveness. We doctors cannot vaccinate children because there is no recommended program that would not oblige parents to vaccinate their children, but if necessary, the vaccine should be made free of charge”, commented the general practitioner Dr. Gergana Nikolova in the “Interview in NOVA News”.
According to her, there are two vaccines against meningococcal infection, one of which is available in Bulgaria, and the other can be purchased from Greece.
“During transportation, vaccines must retain their qualities, at a special temperature. Parents should not seize the initiative, but the state and the health system. The Ministry of Health and Finance must find the money and ensure the possibility of having a recommended vaccine for children”, Dr. Nikolova also pointed out.
The doctor explained that every infection begins with a high fever, sore throat and joints, and through rapid tests it can be determined whether it is a common cold or an infection. “I do not recommend that anyone seize the functions of their doctor and self-prescribe therapy”, Dr. Nikolova added.