During the meeting, lawmakers also discussed a draft law on the ratification of an Agreement with the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development. This "Phase 1" project is part of the "One Health" Program aimed at preventing pandemics and strengthening food systems in Central Asia.
Deputy Gulnara Akimbaeva from constituency No. 24 noted that regulations regarding medical waste management were adopted in 2019 and 2025, and expressed confusion about the introduction of new amendments despite the lack of results from previous reforms.
Sydygaliev responded that improving the situation requires staff training and that specialized centers have been established in the country to handle medical waste.
Akimbaeva added that the rules developed in 2025 require further updates and inquired about the mechanisms for controlling the use of grant funds.
According to Sydygaliev, the healthcare system is constantly evolving: new diseases and medications are emerging, and treatment protocols are being updated. "We must be ready for changes and potential pandemics. At this moment, the Nipah virus does not pose a danger to our country; however, work at sanitary control points has been intensified," he noted.
Akimbaeva emphasized the importance of enhanced control in this situation.
Deputy Aisarakhan Abdibaeva from constituency No. 15 also inquired about what measures the Ministry of Health is taking to prevent the spread of the Nipah virus. The Deputy Minister stated that passengers at airports and checkpoints are being screened using thermal imaging to detect symptoms of illness, and training for medical personnel is being conducted.
