AKIPRESS.COM - U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) handed over personal protective equipment and medical supplies to two hospitals in Bishkek on October 19.

The National Hospital and the Infectious Diseases Hospital received 19,000 pairs of disposable gloves, 5,000 respirators, 960 safety goggles, 10,000 anti-slip shoe covers, along with 50 pacemakers for patient care.

The Ministry of Health identified these tertiary care facilities as having the largest number of hospitalized patients with COVID-19. The donation, valued at over 1 million Kyrgyz soms, is part of the U.S. government's ongoing assistance to the Kyrgyz Republic for its COVID-19 response.

According to the Manager of the National Hospital Toktobay Maanaev such support is critical in the fight against the pandemic. “With timely training for doctors, equipment and supplies we managed to significantly reduce the mortality rates in the last waves,” said doctor Maanaev.

In July, USAID also provided modern equipment and supplies to five hospitals dealing with a high caseload of COVID-19 patients. They received oxygen concentrators, laryngoscopes and other essential equipment to effectively diagnose and treat patients suffering from severe cases of COVID-19.

USAID Acting Mission Director Keith Simmons highlighted that COVID-19 remains a serious challenge to health care systems globally and in the Kyrgyz Republic. “We recognize and praise all healthcare providers for their dedication and hard work throughout this pandemic. USAID remains committed to supporting the Kyrgyz Republic,” said Keith Simmons.

Since the start of the pandemic, USAID has provided more than $7 million to the Kyrgyz Republic to support the country’s efforts in the fight against COVID-19.