Mass Poisoning of Children in Ferghana Kindergartens Brought Under Control — Child Rights Commissioner

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The situation involving mass poisoning of children in state-run preschools in Ferghana Region has been brought under control, according to the Child Rights Commissioner.

On 21 February 2026, children attending kindergartens in the city of Ferghana were admitted to the regional infectious diseases hospital with complaints of fever, weakness, nausea, and diarrhea. Medical examinations diagnosed acute alimentary diarrhea. Currently, 62 children remain hospitalized, and their condition is reported as satisfactory.

The regional child rights representative is conducting an on-site assessment of the situation, communicating with the children and their parents, reviewing medical records, and monitoring the provision of care.

At the same time, specialists from the regional sanitary and epidemiological authority, the preschool and school education department, and other relevant agencies are inspecting kindergarten cafeterias and conducting laboratory tests on the food consumed by the children.

The premises of the affected institutions have been examined by an investigative-operational team, including employees from the Ferghana City Prosecutor’s Office and the city police department, and necessary procedural actions have been taken. The city police are currently conducting a pre-trial investigation.

The Child Rights Commissioner continues to oversee the situation, ensuring the protection of the children’s interests and prompt response to the incident.