According to the doctor, emergency reports of poisoning cases began to arrive on March 10. During a survey of the affected individuals, it was found that all of them had dinner at the mentioned establishment on March 8. Initially, mashed potatoes were suspected as the cause of the incident.
The specialist noted that during the inspection, a violation of sanitary norms was identified: the 24-hour cafeteria did not adhere to the storage times for prepared dishes. In particular, the mashed potatoes, which should be refreshed every two hours, were found to be expired.
Gulzat Asanakunova explained that many perceive mashed potatoes as a safe dish; however, it contains dairy products that, if storage conditions are violated, can become a source of bacteria and lead to poisoning.
According to the doctor, the affected individuals exhibited symptoms such as repeated vomiting, diarrhea, high fever, dizziness, and abdominal pain. All of them were hospitalized at the Republican Clinical Infectious Diseases Hospital.
Currently, the cafeteria is closed by order of the sanitary service. The establishment's administration has been fined, a complete disinfection of the premises is underway, and the heating and refrigeration equipment is being washed. The staff is also undergoing testing for bacteria.
Final conclusions regarding the causes of the poisoning will be made after laboratory tests, the results of which are expected in a week.
In 2025, 159 cases of food poisoning were registered in Bishkek, and starting from 2026, this is already the second case of mass poisoning.
