At the request of national health authorities, the mission was organized in response to growing concerns about missed or refused vaccinations, particularly among children.
In recent days, WHO specialists, together with local medical professionals, have been investigating immunization practices, identifying existing problems, and gathering opinions from frontline professionals. The team visited primary healthcare facilities in various regions, including Bishkek and Osh, where they conducted interviews with general practitioners, nurses, vaccination specialists, and heads of medical organizations.
Read more on the topic Vaccination Calendar. Who and when to vaccinate and why it is important
During their visits, the team also assessed the interaction between healthcare workers and parents, especially those who have doubts or fears regarding vaccination, and determined whether additional training is needed to improve communication. Experts also analyzed the availability of vaccines, supply disruptions, the documentation of medical contraindications, and the reporting procedures for possible adverse reactions following vaccination.
Additionally, WHO specialists are studying recent data on measles outbreaks, where incomplete vaccination has been identified as one of the factors contributing to the spread of the disease. The information gathered will be used to improve public health policy, enhance the quality of medical services, and implement targeted measures to increase vaccination coverage among the population.
The results of the mission's work will be summarized in a detailed report with practical recommendations for the Ministry of Health of the Kyrgyz Republic, development partners, and medical institutions. This will be an important step in efforts to increase routine immunization coverage and protect the population from vaccine-preventable infectious diseases.
Since the beginning of 2025, nearly 9,000 cases of measles have been registered in Kyrgyzstan, ten of which have resulted in fatalities. Of those infected, 94 percent were unvaccinated against measles.
