Climate change is already beginning to directly affect the health of Kyrgyzstan’s population, and by 2035 the burden on the healthcare system could increase significantly. These risks are outlined in the country’s National Adaptation Plan.

According to World Bank estimates, the incidence of waterborne diseases in Kyrgyzstan could increase by 10–17 percent, while heat-related illnesses could rise by as much as 55–94 percent. Without adaptation measures, additional healthcare costs alone are estimated at approximately $6.7 million per year.

The authors of the document emphasize that the main threat goes beyond financial losses. In mountainous and remote areas, floods and mudflows could cut off communities from medical care for several days or even weeks.

Children, older people, those with chronic illnesses, people with disabilities and low-income families are identified as particularly vulnerable.

To reduce the risks, by 2035 at least 80 percent of healthcare facilities in climate-risk zones should have business continuity plans for heatwaves, floods and outbreaks of waterborne diseases.

These plans should provide for emergency reserves, alternative routes for delivering medicines and medical assistance, as well as the use of telemedicine in isolated areas.

In addition, a monitoring system for climate-sensitive health risks is planned, covering everything from heat stress to waterborne diseases and the consequences of emergencies.

The plan also proposes strengthening social support for people who are most vulnerable to climate shocks. Targeted measures should be available to at least 80 percent of low-income households in high-risk areas.

This would include mobile medical teams, targeted payments, early warning systems and special assistance mechanisms for vulnerable groups.

By 2035, at least 75 percent of vulnerable areas should have uninterrupted access to healthcare and social services even during periods of extreme heat, floods, mudflows and other climate-related stresses.