In the remote, rugged landscapes of Naryn, Kyrgyzstan, where access to healthcare is often a journey unto itself, a dedicated figure stands tall amidst the challenges. Meet Jiydekul Yrysbayeva, a beacon of hope and resilience in a region where medical services are sparse and distances vast.
In this documentary photo story, we delve into the life and work of Jiydekul Yrysbayeva, a feldsher who lives in Naryn, the most mountainous region of Kyrgyzstan, and embodies the spirit of service and compassion. Despite the logistical hurdles of reaching this inaccessible part of Kyrgyzstan, Jiydekul Yrysbayeva tirelessly dedicates herself to the well-being of her community.
A part-time medical worker and full-time advocate for health, Jiydekul Yrysbayeva’s mission extends beyond the confines of her medical station. With a particular focus on vaccination, she plays a crucial role in safeguarding the lives of her fellow Kyrgyzstanis. Through her efforts, she not only administers vaccines but also educates and empowers her community about the importance of immunization.
This documentary photo series sheds light on Kyrgyzstan’s relentless efforts in the realm of vaccination and immunization with the support of the World Health Organization (WHO) and other allies. Over 50 years, the Expanded Immunization Program has been a cornerstone of WHO’s European Region, of which Kyrgyzstan is a part. 2024 also marks 30 years for Kyrgyzstan’s National Immunization Program, a massive public health initiative, saving countless lives and fortifying generations against preventable diseases.
Through their dedication and the power of vaccines, Jiydekul Yrysbayeva and her peers not only save lives but also lay the foundation for a healthier, resilient future for Kyrgyzstan and beyond.
A health project co-funded by the European Union is currently being implemented in Kyrgyzstan and the four other central Asian republics: Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. The project involves supporting the ministries of health with immunization and supply chain logistics, risk communication and community engagement, and the capacity-building of health-care professionals, paving the way to achieve the goals and targets of the European Immunization Agenda 2030.
A shorter version of this photo essay appeared here during European Immunization Week. It has been republished with permission.