With the arrival of spring and summer, the risk of vector-borne diseases—those transmitted by blood-sucking insects—increases significantly. This is especially important for those planning trips to tropical and subtropical regions.

According to the Ministry of Health of the Kyrgyz Republic, 11 imported cases of malaria were recorded in the country between 2020 and 2024, mostly among citizens returning from endemic countries. Thanks to timely diagnosis and treatment, further transmission was prevented. No local transmission of viruses carried by tiger mosquitoes has been reported in Kyrgyzstan.

One virus of growing global concern is Chikungunya. It is spread by Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti mosquitoes and causes high fever, rash, and severe joint pain, which can sometimes persist for months or even years, significantly reducing quality of life.

These same mosquito species can also transmit Zika, Dengue fever, West Nile virus, and Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever. Their habitat has expanded and has already been observed in regions near Kyrgyzstan.

The Ministry of Health recommends the following precautions, especially for travelers heading to Africa, South Asia, and South America:

• Consult a doctor before your trip to choose preventive medications against malaria;

• Begin taking the medication in advance and continue throughout your trip and for one month after return;

• Research the epidemiological situation of your destination country in advance.

To protect yourself from mosquito bites:

• Use insect repellents;

• Wear long-sleeved clothes and pants, especially in the morning and evening;

• Sleep under a mosquito net;

• Avoid stagnant water around living areas;

• If symptoms like fever, body aches, or rash appear, seek medical help and inform the doctor about your recent travel history.

Vector-borne diseases are preventable. Caution, awareness, and timely medical attention are key to staying healthy during the vacation season.


Source: Ministry of Public Health of the Kyrgyz Republic