Warden Message

Embassy Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
November 3, 2009

This Warden Message provides an update on the evolving medical situation in Turkmenistan.  We have received reports of a number of deaths in Ashgabat due to a flu-like sickness, which the Government of Turkmenistan is calling "widespread respiratory illness."  As yet, local authorities have not confirmed the existence of 2009-H1N1 influenza in Turkmenistan.

Embassy employees continue to be instructed to stay home from work if they, or anyone in their family, exhibit flu-like symptoms to limit the risk of transmission.  If the Embassy takes further steps, we will advise the U.S. citizen community via further warden messages.

Due to legal restrictions and a lack of sufficient resources, the Embassy is not in a position to provide private citizens with pandemic-related supplies, medications or medical treatment, including vaccines, and cannot provide specific medical advice.  Questions and concerns about influenza or other illnesses should be directed to a medical professional.  A list of local hospitals and doctors can be found on our website.

For more information on how to prepare for a severe pandemic, please see the State Department "Pandemic Influenza Fact Sheet" and "Options During a Pandemic" flyer. Detailed information about 2009-H1N1 influenza can be found on the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website, the U.S. Government's federal influenza website, and the World Health Organization website.

U.S. citizens residing or traveling in Turkmenistan are encouraged to register with the Embassy through the State Department's travel registration website, to obtain updated travel and security information.  U.S. citizens without Internet access may register directly with the Embassy.  Registration is important; it allows the Embassy and the State Department to assist you in an emergency.

In case of emergency outside of business hours, call the main Embassy switchboard and follow the instructions.  The U.S. Embassy is located at 9 1984 (Pushkin Street), off Magtymguly Street, tel. (993-12) 35-00-45; fax (993-12) 39-26-14.  The Consular Section can also be contacted by e-mail at: consularashgab@state.gov. The Consular Section is open for American Citizens Services every Monday through Friday afternoon, excepting holidays.