Kyrgyzstan unveils updated strategy to prevent dangerous infectious diseases

Kyrgyzstan has launched a revision of its sanitary protection regulations and introduced a draft action plan for 2026–2030 aimed at preventing the import and spread of quarantine and особо dangerous infectious diseases, Kabar news agency reports.

According to Deputy Health Minister and Chief State Sanitary Doctor Ryspek Sydygaliev, the proposal is based on the Constitution, the Law on Citizens’ Health Protection, and the Public Health Law adopted in January 2024. The country’s sanitary and epidemiological services currently operate under this legal framework.

A specialized Republican Center monitors особо dangerous infections, while sanitary quarantine checkpoints operate at border entry points. Temporary quarantine posts can also be deployed if necessary. The primary objective is to prevent both communicable and non-communicable diseases.

Authorities reported that in 2025 no outbreaks of anthrax, tularemia, plague, or rabies were recorded. However, other infectious diseases remain under close surveillance.

The updated draft incorporates lessons learned from the 2020 pandemic, particularly by strengthening control measures at quarantine checkpoints. The new strategy clarifies procedures for protecting national territory from high-risk infections.

Officials stress that the evolving global epidemiological landscape, including the emergence of diseases such as COVID-19 and potential biological threats, requires coordinated action among multiple agencies — from health and emergency services to law enforcement, border control, and local governments.

The 2026–2030 comprehensive plan outlines joint preventive and anti-epidemic measures in case of emergencies. The Health Ministry noted that adopting the document will not require amendments to other laws or additional state funding. The draft is open for public discussion for 14 days.