A mass food poisoning outbreak has been reported in two fast-food outlets, "Besh Lavash" and "Midos," situated at the intersection of Chui Avenue and Suyunbaev Street in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. The cause of this unfortunate event has been identified as contaminated shawarma, the Center for State Sanitary and Epidemiological Surveillance reported. 

A total of 21 individuals have been affected by the food poisoning outbreak. Among them, 15 people, including two children, required hospitalization at the Republican Clinical Infectious Diseases Hospital. The remaining six individuals are currently undergoing outpatient treatment.

In response to the outbreak, a thorough investigation has been launched. Samples of the ready-made shawarma, its ingredients, and equipment washes have been collected for sanitary and microbiological testing. The results of these tests will provide crucial insights into the source and nature of contamination.

The fast-food outlets involved in the incident have not escaped consequences. They have been fined a total of 72,000 soms (a little over $800) for the violations detected in their operations. Furthermore, these establishments have been temporarily closed pending the resolution of these violations.

The gravity of the situation prompted an emergency meeting convened by the Minister of Health, Alymkadyr Beishenaliev. The meeting took place at the Bishkek State Epidemiological Center to address the mass poisoning incident in the capital.

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