Europe

The Form E111 is no longer valid. You should obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before leaving the UK. The EHIC is not a substitute for medical and travel insurance, but entitles you to emergency medical treatment that becomes necessary on the same terms as Bulgarian nationals. You will not be covered for medical repatriation, on-going medical treatment or treatment of a non-urgent nature. For more general information see EHIC.

 

You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.
 

Facilities in most Bulgarian hospitals are basic and old-fashioned compared to those in the UK. Standards of medical care are acceptable, although specialised equipment/treatment may not be available, and hospital staff invariably do not speak English.

 
Private clinics and hospitals are generally well equipped and not expensive in comparison with the UK.  You should, however, be aware that some private hospitals will not accept the EHIC.  You should check with Hospital Administrators.

You should seek medical advice before travelling and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up to date. 

For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbnreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should check the websites of NaTHNaC and NHS Scotland's Fit For Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)

There was a confirmed case of H5N1 Avian Influenza in wild birds in the Vidin area in the north-western region of Bulgaria in the summer of 2006.  No human infections or deaths have been reported.

 

The risk from Avian Influenza is believed to be very low.   As a precaution, you should avoid visiting live animal markets, poultry farms and other places where you may come into close contact with domestic, caged or wild birds; and ensure poultry and egg dishes are thoroughly cooked.

You should read this advice in conjunction with Avian & Pandemic Influenza, which gives more detailed advice and information.

A (H1N1) - Swine Flu

 

There are increasing numbers of confirmed human cases of A (H1N1) - Swine Flu in Bulgaria (source: Bulgarian Ministry of Health). The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at: www.who.int has further details. You should monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on this website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at: www.dh.gov.uk.

Entry screening, in the form of thermal scanning equipment has been introduced at airport terminals. Passengers displaying flu-like symptoms are examined at airport medical points and directed to hospitals as required. There are no entry/exit screening procedures in place at land or port border checkpoints. Health Certificates are not required.