On October 31 in Bishkek, a mass poisoning occurred among students and staff at the "Seitek STEM" school.
According to information from the State Sanitary and Epidemiological Surveillance Center, the total number of affected individuals was 84, including 4 teachers.
- 79 people sought help at the Republican Clinical Infectious Diseases Hospital, where tests for toxins were conducted;
- 5 people received assistance at private medical facilities.
The preliminary diagnosis for the affected individuals is bacterial poisoning of unidentified origin.
The sanitary investigation revealed that the cause of the poisoning was the consumption of shawarma provided for lunch on October 31 in the school cafeteria.
The first symptoms of the illness, such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and general weakness, appeared in students a few hours after eating.
In response to the incident, specialists from the State Sanitary and Epidemiological Surveillance conducted an inspection of the cafeteria and food block. Samples of food were collected, as well as swabs from the equipment, and the staff involved in food preparation were examined. The conditions for food storage and compliance with sanitary standards were also checked.
The management of the educational institution was issued directives to eliminate the identified violations and carry out a complete disinfection.
Administrative protocols have been drawn up against the school principal:
- according to Article 214, Part 1 of the KR Code on Offenses — a fine of 5000 soms;
- under Article 214, Part 2 — a fine of 23,000 soms.
Currently, the State Sanitary and Epidemiological Surveillance Center of Bishkek continues to investigate the causes of the incident.
After receiving the final results of the laboratory tests, a final conclusion about the situation will be made, and necessary measures will be taken in accordance with the law.
