In response, the director of the National Center for Phthisiatry, Abdullaat Kadyrov, provided clarifications.
"As a doctor with over 35 years of experience in the phthisiatric service, I find it important to clarify the situation. All my statements are based on facts and years of experience. The Talas Anti-Tuberculosis Hospital and our National Center in Bishkek do not pose any epidemiological threat to the surrounding areas. This issue has been studied and is confirmed by years of practice," Kadyrov stated.
According to him, "this is not a coincidence, but a logical result of strict adherence to all infection control measures that we apply every day."
"All waste—medical, laboratory, or food—undergoes a mandatory two-stage disinfection system. Primary processing is carried out in the hospital using special solutions, and then the waste is sent for secondary processing through a modern septic system. Additionally, a special ventilation regime is maintained in the premises, and the air is regularly disinfected. All these measures completely eliminate the possibility of infection spreading beyond the healthcare facility," he added.
"It is important to note that the question of the 'improper' location of the hospital in the city center is based on outdated notions. In global practice, anti-tuberculosis facilities are often located in the central areas of major cities, and this raises no questions. I am familiar with the experience of colleagues from several European and Central Asian countries, where such hospitals have historically been situated in densely populated areas. Modern phthisiatry has abandoned the isolation of patients on the outskirts. We now adhere to a 'treatment in society' strategy, which is more humane and effective," Kadyrov emphasized.
The director also noted that the discussion about the hospital reflects a deeper social issue. "The question raised in parliament shows the negative attitude of society towards people suffering from tuberculosis. Calls to 'evict' the hospital also mean 'evicting' the patients themselves, their desire to hide from society. This is an outdated and harmful approach that undermines the fight against tuberculosis," he expressed his concerns.
"This leads to late diagnosis, hidden spread of the disease, and ultimately worsens the epidemiological situation. The fight against tuberculosis does not start with building fences, but with combating ignorance and prejudice. I officially declare on behalf of the National Center for Phthisiatry: anti-tuberculosis institutions in Kyrgyzstan are safe for the population and meet all standards, and their location in cities is an international practice," Kadyrov concluded.
The photo on the main page is illustrative: doctor-anna.ru.
