WHO works with Kyrgyz authorities to reduce risk of COVID-19 infection at border crossings

3 December 2020

Crossing borders can pose a risk of COVID-19 spread unless appropriate steps are taken to mitigate it at airports and ground crossing points. In Kyrgyzstan, WHO conducted a survey at 3 international airports and 4 ground crossing points to determine the level of implementation of prevention measures on the ground.

Airport staff and ground staff were asked to complete a self-assessment questionnaire based on a checklist of key questions and considerations. The survey was designed to assess knowledge and equipment needed for responding to COVID-19 transmission risks, as well as to provide advice on how to reduce those risks among travelers, aircrew and ground staff.

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Citizens who use the Dostuk border crossing between Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan answer questions on their health status before having their temperature taken.

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The WHO checklist is used to assess protective measures at the Torugart ground crossing point located in a remote area of Kyrgyzstan on the border with China, 4350 metres above sea level.

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Staff at the Irkeshtam border control crossing point encourage travelers to keep 1 metre apart while completing entry forms, as they wait to cross.

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As per national public health recommendations, all vehicles crossing the border, including these lorries at Kyzyl-Kiya, should be disinfected to minimize the risk of spreading COVID-19.

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Manas International Airport was among the points of entry using signs to remind people to adhere to physical distancing rules.

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Floor markings were also used to ensure staff and customers kept at least 1 metre apart, shown here at Tamachy International Airport.

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Isolation rooms, such as these at Osh International Airport, are available for travelers who display signs and symptoms of respiratory infection and who have been exposed to COVID-19. They are isolated before being safely transferred to a health care facility for further assessment.

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