Children’s Ombudsperson Visits Hospital in Jizzakh Region Treating Affected Preschoolers

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The investigation into the mass food poisoning of preschool children in the Forish district of the Jizzakh region is ongoing.

Representatives of the Office of the Children’s Ombudsperson conducted a monitoring visit to the district medical association, where the affected children are receiving treatment. As of the evening of 10 October, four children aged between four and six — two boys and two girls — remained hospitalized. All are under medical supervision, receiving necessary care, and their condition is reported as stable.

The Children’s Ombudsperson also met with parents and medical staff to personally review the details of treatment and the children’s condition.

Earlier reports indicated that 37 children from state-run preschools No. 1, 3, 5, and 7 in the Forish district showed symptoms of food poisoning — fever, nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weakness. Preliminary findings suggest that on 8 October, the children had consumed bio-kefir, cheese, and butter before falling ill.

The district prosecutor’s office has opened a criminal case under Article 205 of the Criminal Code (abuse of power or official authority). The pretrial investigation is ongoing to determine all the circumstances of the incident.

Meanwhile, according to the Ministry of Health, as of 10 October, two children remained under medical observation, whereas an hour earlier the regional health department had reported six children still hospitalized.