In his comment, he noted:
“Considering my more than 35 years of experience in the field of phthisiatry, I find it important to clarify. Everything I assert is based on facts, years of observations, and strict protocols that govern our activities. The Talas Regional Tuberculosis Hospital, like our National Center for Phthisiatry in Bishkek, does not pose any epidemiological threat to people living nearby. This issue has been thoroughly researched and confirmed by years of practice. A simple yet convincing fact: since 1986, that is, for almost forty years of my work at the center, not a single case of tuberculosis infection has been recorded among residents living near the hospital.
This result is a consequence of strict adherence to all infection control measures that we implement daily. All waste—from medical materials to food scraps—undergoes a mandatory two-stage disinfection system. The first treatment is carried out in the hospital using special solutions and equipment, and then the waste is sent for secondary processing through a modern septic system.
Moreover, a special ventilation regime is maintained in the premises, and air disinfection is performed regularly. These measures collectively eliminate the possibility of infection spreading beyond the healthcare facility.
It is important to emphasize that the discussion about the "inappropriate" location of the hospital in the city center is based on outdated notions. Worldwide, tuberculosis facilities are often located in central areas of large cities, which is not unusual.
I am familiar with the experiences of colleagues from various European and Central Asian countries, where such facilities are traditionally located in densely populated areas. Modern phthisiatry has moved away from the principle of complete isolation of patients on the outskirts. We adhere to the strategy of "treatment without separation from society," which is considered a more humane and effective approach.
Nevertheless, the issue raised in parliament reflects a deeper social problem—the stigmatization and discrimination of people facing tuberculosis. Calls to "evict" the hospital effectively mean "evicting" patients, hiding them from society. This is an outdated and harmful approach that seriously undermines efforts to combat tuberculosis. Such statements generate fear and biases, causing people to avoid seeking medical help when they notice symptoms, fearing stigma. This leads to delayed diagnosis, hidden disease spread, and ultimately worsens the overall epidemiological situation. The fight against tuberculosis should begin not with building fences, but with overcoming ignorance and prejudices.
In conclusion, I officially declare on behalf of the National Center for Phthisiatry: tuberculosis facilities in Kyrgyzstan are safe for the population, their operations comply with all national and international standards, and their location in cities is a common practice worldwide.”
