Brussels, November 10 (BTA correspondent Nikolay Jeliazkov) - The European Commission (EC) is working to meet a request by Bulgaria for assistance under the EU Civil Protection Mechanism in connection with the COVID-19 epidemic, a EC spokesperson said on Wednesday, in response to a question.

He specified that the request was received on Tuesday and it is for the supply of oxygen masks, ventilating machines and intensive care unit beds. He added that the Commission is checking which EU countries can help as well as the availability of shared supplies.

According to him, the Commission may be expected to cover 75-100% of the costs for the transportation of the necessary equipment. The spokesperson said that a result is expected soon.

Later, the Health Ministry said that it has moved to activate the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. The mechanism will ensure that if the epidemic situation worsens sharply, the necessary equipment will be delivered immdiately. For now Bulgaria's health care system is coping and there is no need for extra equipment but the activation of the mechanism will provide additional security in the efforts to tackle the epidemic. LN/PP//