A total of 43 measles infections have been recorded across three regions in Bulgaria, according to data released by the Ministry of Health on March 30. The largest cluster is concentrated in the municipality of Byala Slatina, where 37 cases have been identified. Additional infections have been reported in Pleven municipality (two cases), as well as single cases in Kozloduy, Lukovit, Yablanitsa and Lovech.

Laboratory testing has so far confirmed 21 of the reported infections, while results for the remaining cases are still pending. The majority of those affected are children, ranging in age from five months to 15 years. Two adults have also been diagnosed – a 25-year-old man from Lovech and a 48-year-old woman from Pleven.

All confirmed patients have been admitted to infectious disease wards as a precautionary measure to contain further transmission. Health authorities note that each case is being promptly entered into the national surveillance system for measles, mumps and rubella, allowing for continuous monitoring and analysis.

Epidemiological investigations are underway to trace contacts of those infected and evaluate their vaccination status. Where gaps are identified, individuals are being directed to their general practitioners for immunisation. Parallel efforts are ongoing to locate children who have missed scheduled vaccinations or are due for mandatory immunisation or revaccination this year.

The Ministry of Health is calling on parents to verify whether their children’s vaccinations are up to date and to seek medical advice if any doses have been missed. Officials stress that timely immunisation remains the most reliable protection against severe complications and is key to preventing wider spread of the disease. Additional information, including guidance addressing common misconceptions about vaccines, is available through the ministry’s “Plus Me” platform.