Kazakhstan activates preparedness measures for hantavirus risk

Kazakhstan is prepared for a possible hantavirus outbreak, epidemiological surveillance specialists have said.

Head of the Epidemiological Surveillance Zhaidarkul Otarbekova noted that the risk of importing infections always exists, but the country’s response system is ready to manage such situations, Caliber.Az reports, citing Kazakh media.

She said hantavirus has long been familiar to Kazakhstani doctors, meaning medical professionals are trained to detect the disease and implement appropriate containment measures.

“If a report of any infectious disease, including especially dangerous infections, is received, all services respond immediately, patients are isolated, and treatment is carried out in an infectious diseases hospital,” the statement said.

At present, thermal imaging cameras are in operation at airports and border checkpoints to help identify individuals showing symptoms of viral infections.

In addition, Kazakhstan has prepared infectious disease hospitals, isolation facilities, and mobile rapid-response teams to ensure swift intervention if needed.

By Vafa Guliyeva