The rapid increase in respiratory infections in Kyrgyzstan has led to a major health crisis. The spread has been identified as being centered around the A/H3N2 virus, known as the 'Hong Kong flu.' As a result of the outbreak, which particularly affects children, hundreds of schools have closed. In just one week, 36,000 cases were reported, with 70% of the patients being children. The Ministry of Education has quarantined 214 kindergartens and 207 schools have transitioned to online education in order to control the outbreak.
Rapidly rising respiratory infections in Kyrgyzstan have plunged the country into a serious health crisis in a short time. The A/H3N2 "Hong Kong flu," which is spreading particularly among children, has paralyzed educational institutions. In response to the increasing number of cases, hundreds of schools and kindergartens have been closed, and quarantine measures have been reintroduced in many regions.
According to data released by the Kyrgyz Ministry of Health, more than 36,000 acute respiratory infection cases were detected in just one week. The most concerning part of the case load is that approximately 70% of the patients are children. Experts indicate that the spread is progressing very rapidly, especially in the group under 14 years of age.
The Ministry of Education has taken comprehensive measures nationwide to slow the spread of the outbreak. 214 kindergartens have been completely quarantined. 207 schools have transitioned to online education.
The ministry stated that during the outbreak, schools do not require an additional permission process to switch to remote education, and merely reporting the situation is sufficient.
Laboratory examinations have revealed that the vast majority of respiratory infections are of the A/H3N2 type Hong Kong flu.
The remainder consists of other respiratory viruses.
Health officials emphasize that the contagiousness of the Hong Kong flu is particularly high.
The Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Education, and the State Sanitary and Epidemiological Surveillance Department are closely monitoring the health status of children.
Preventive measures have been strengthened in the capital Bishkek, as well as in Chuy, Osh, Batken, and other regions.