Central Asian Countries Launch Program to Prevent Future Pandemics

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A Regional “One Health” program has been launched in Dushanbe, aimed at preventing future pandemics and strengthening biosafety systems across Central Asia. The initiative is being implemented with the support of the World Bank, the Regional Environmental Center for Central Asia (CAREC), and international partners.

The program unites the efforts of regional countries to prevent, detect, and respond to animal-borne diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and food safety threats.

One of the main challenges remains the high incidence of diseases among livestock, weak genetics, and inefficient husbandry practices, which reduce productivity and competitiveness in the sector.

Experts estimate that the economic losses from animal diseases are significant. For example, cumulative losses from brucellosis could reach US$1.15 billion by 2048, while investments in preventive measures could generate up to US$294 million in economic benefits over the next 25 years.

The program plans to establish mechanisms for regional coordination and data exchange, develop epidemiological surveillance and laboratory networks, and train specialists in veterinary and medical fields.

In the first phase, the World Bank allocated US$30 million in concessional financing to Kyrgyzstan and a grant of the same amount to Tajikistan. The total support for the region under the initiative could reach US$130 million.