How many people died of poisoning in Uzbekistan in 8 months?

During the first eight months of 2023, Uzbekistan recorded 39 cases of poisoning. During this period, 414 cases of general poisoning were observed among its citizens. Abdurakhman Ismailov, the chief specialist in food hygiene at the Sanitary and Hygiene Department, provided this information.

He clarified that three citizens died as a result of poisoning, and 86 children were injured. Among the 39 cases, 21 (53.8 percent) were attributed to botulism, one case (2.5 percent) was linked to preschool educational institutions, 13 cases (23 percent) were due to food poisoning, and one case (2.5 percent) was the result of chemical poisoning.

Out of the 21 botulism cases caused by the consumption of homemade canned goods, three occurred in Jizzakh, six in Samarkand, and six in Fergana regions.

When addressing the causes of food poisoning, Abdurakhman Ismailov noted that the kitchens of public catering facilities and non-state educational institutions did not comply with the sanitary rules and norms.

"The kitchens are not fully equipped with the necessary equipment, and the existing equipment is often old and in poor condition," said Abdurakhman Ismailov.

He also mentioned that non-guaranteed food products of questionable quality and safety were being used for cooking. Furthermore, most of the chefs at public catering establishments lacked proper training in food preparation techniques, food storage, transportation, and sales, and were not knowledgeable about the relevant regulations.

It is important to remind you that on September 21 of this year, 71 children in the Namangan region exhibited symptoms of poisoning and were subsequently admitted to the hospital. On September 22, 12 children in the Andijan region were diagnosed with poisoning, and on September 23, a significant number of children in Tashkent were also affected and hospitalized.