Vaccine-preventable diseases

Greeks are putting their trust in pharmacists for flu vaccinations, and with the upcoming COVID vaccinations and distribution of colorectal cancer tests, pharmacists and their role in primary healthcare are being highlighted.

Bulgaria is bracing for two flu strains this winter, specifically "Victoria" and "Thailand," with no surprises anticipated. This information was shared by State Chief Health Inspector Assoc. Angel Kunchev during an interview with BNT.

During the past week, 12 new domestic cases of West Nile virus and 3 deaths were diagnosed/reported, according to the epidemiological report of the EODY.

A total of 27 deaths and 180 cases of West Nile Virus (WNV) infection have been diagnosed and investigated in Greece up until September 18, according to an epidemiological report released on Thursday by Greece's National Public Health Organization (EODY).

The number of COVID-19 cases has recently surged, with four out of five patients seeking hospital care for flu-like symptoms testing positive for the virus, according to an expert.

"Despite people's apparent disregard for the virus, COVID-19 still persists. Since Aug. 15, we have observed a significant increase in cases," noted Dr. Müslüm Süngü, an Internal Medicine Specialist

With 100 instances of West Nile virus infections confirmed in nine regions of the country and two additional deaths within a week, the virus transmitted by common mosquitoes poses a significant threat, with experts appealing to the public to take necessary precautions.

Türkiye's Health Ministry has released a comprehensive 24-page guide on mpox, which has recently surged in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and has become a global threat.

The guide includes contributions from various experts and aims to educate the public and health professionals on the nature of the disease, its transmission routes and preventive measures.

Greece has initiated its monkeypox vaccination campaign as of July 22, according to an announcement by Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis. This action follows the World Health Organization's (WHO) declaration that the spread of monkeypox is a public health emergency of international concern.

Greek health authorities are on heightened alert for the prevention and early detection of mpox (monkeypox) virus cases and have announced the establishment of more vaccination centers for high-risk groups.

Bulgaria recorded a case of monkeypox in June 2023, involving a 36-year-old man who tested positive for a less severe strain of the virus. The patient was isolated and successfully treated. This follows six cases reported in the summer of 2022.