Restrictions introduced in Astana due to a surge in ARVI and flu cases

Tengrinews.kz – On Wednesday, November 19, the Chief Sanitary Doctor of Astana, Aigul Shagaltaeva, signed a decree introducing enhanced sanitary and anti-epidemic measures in the capital due to the rise in cases of acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI) and influenza.The text of the decree was published on the official website of the Astana akimat.
The measures include:

Strengthening operations in outpatient clinics and hospitals;
Isolating sick individuals;
Expanding intake rooms;
Enforcing mask requirements;
Temperature checks;
Ensuring sufficient supplies of antiviral medications.

Schools are to switch to remote learning if more than 30% of a class is ill, from November 20 to December 5. A daily “morning health check” will be mandatory for children and staff. Mass events will be restricted.

“Anti-epidemic measures must remain in place until the epidemiological situation concerning ARVI and influenza in Astana improves,” the decree states.

Over the past week, 23,002 ARVI cases have been recorded in Astana. Compared to the previous week (October 30 – November 5, 2025), incidence increased 1.5 times. Children under 14 account for 60% of all cases.
Currently, several influenza strains are circulating in Kazakhstan, including A H3N2 (Hong Kong flu), known for causing more severe illness. The surge in cases has caused concern among residents, leading to increased demand for antiviral medications in pharmacies.