Sun, Nov 08 2009
The number of flu cases in six Bulgarian regions is on the rise. Plovdiv, Haskovo, Yambol, Smolyan, Pazardjik and Vidin are experiencing an epidemic. The infection rate is under control in Pleven and Shoumen.
Schools in several cities closed down to stop the spread of infections. The sharp temperature changes aid the easy spread of the virus, Dnevnik newspaper reported.
Though many regions are affected, the number of sick people has decreased by more than 1000. Last week 13 900 people suffered from flu. This week the number of cases does not exceed 12 400, Health Ministry data shows.
Bulgaria is experiencing the annual flu epidemic later than usual this year. It started in the middle of February and medics predict it will finish in the end of March.
Doctors advise people to avoid large social gatherings in order to protect themselves. One virus type has been identified but lab experts said at least two more flu viruses affect people at present.
Kindergartens to be dealt with on a case-by-case basis and universities to decide for themselves whether to suspend classes.
Five illegal immigrants from Iran and Iraq caught by Bulgarian police in Sliven.
Leonid Lavchev sent an intermediary to collect 1000 leva from a dairy farm in Haskovo, investigators say
Former labour minister Emilia Maslarova follows the example of Socialist party leader and former prime minister, Sergei Stanishev, in requesting that her MP immunity is lifted
Health Minister: Influenza strain is not seasonal flu, it is swine flu. More than 100 000 Bulgarians are down with the H1N1 strain.