In light of the growing number of ARVI and influenza cases, Health Minister Erkin Checheybaev conducted an inspection of several children's medical institutions in Bishkek, where parents frequently bring their children with these illnesses.
During his visit, he familiarized himself with the situation at the City Children's Clinical Emergency Hospital and the Republican Clinical Infectious Disease Hospital.
According to the heads of these institutions, there has been a noticeable increase in visits and hospitalizations during the cold season. The majority of infection cases occur in places where children gather, including playgrounds in major shopping centers in the capital. The issue of a shortage of medical personnel, particularly pediatricians and infectious disease specialists, was also raised.
The minister issued directives in the following areas: to increase the number of medical staff in children's and infectious disease hospitals, to attract specialists from the primary healthcare network, to create comfortable conditions for children and their parents, to ensure access to drinking water in waiting areas, and to open additional facilities for patient reception to reduce queues and prevent crowding.
Checheybaev also noted that the peak of influenza and ARVI cases is expected in December, and the Ministry of Health of Kyrgyzstan is already developing measures to improve the situation in hospitals.
The Ministry of Health recommends that citizens, upon experiencing the first symptoms—high fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat, or general weakness—contact the Family Medicine Centers (FMC) in their area.
Unjustified visits to medical institutions can lead to increased waiting times and a higher risk of contact with other viruses, which may complicate the course of the illness, especially in children.
The FMCs in Bishkek operate according to the following schedule:
- Mon–Fri: 08:00–20:00
- Saturday: 08:00–18:00
- Sunday: 08:00–14:00
- regular ventilation of premises;
- thorough hand washing;
- avoiding crowded places and using masks in public areas;
- strengthening the immune system: healthy eating, adequate hydration, and sufficient sleep;
- timely consultation with family doctors.
