Kyrgyzstan Doctors Warn of Increased "Dirty Hands" Diseases Among Children

Medical professionals in Kyrgyzstan are warning of an increase in "dirty hands" diseases, also known as intestinal infections, with children being particularly vulnerable. Specialists at the Republican Center for Health Promotion highlight that children's susceptibility to these infections is 2.5 to 3 times higher than that of adults.

The summer and autumn months typically see a rise in these illnesses. This increase is attributed to greater consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, which can carry pathogens if not properly handled or washed. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, vomiting, frequent diarrhea, and sometimes fever.

According to the Republican Clinical Infectious Diseases Hospital in Bishkek, 344 patients are currently receiving inpatient treatment. Of these, 279 are children. The majority of patients are suffering from acute intestinal infections (94 patients) and various forms of enterovirus infection. Over the past 24 hours, 281 patients sought medical attention, with 115 requiring hospitalization. Four patients, three adults and one child, are in intensive care due to severe cases of intestinal infections, enterovirus, or respiratory viral infections. The hospital reports that the overall situation is stable, with the facility operating within its 500-bed capacity.