Kazakhstan schools close as mouse infestation spirals out of control

Two schools and two kindergartens in Atyrau's Makhambet District have shut down due to a severe rodent outbreak. The closure follows reports of field mice overrunning homes, yards, and public buildings in nearby villages. Authorities expect the measures to last about a week while pest control efforts continue.

The infestation has hit the villages of Beibars and Taldykol particularly hard. Residents describe mice swarming through houses, outbuildings, and gardens, leaving behind a strong foul smell. Despite setting traps and using poison, locals have struggled to contain the problem.

Local officials suspect last year's flooding may have triggered the sudden surge in field mice. Similar outbreaks occurred in Akmola, Pavlodar, and northern Kazakhstan between 2024 and 2026, leading to temporary school closures and large-scale disinfection campaigns.

In response, authorities have hired a private pest control company to carry out deratization and disinfection of affected buildings. Specialised supplies have also been distributed to residents to help tackle the infestation. Experts have tested the rodents for infections, but no contaminated specimens have been found, keeping the risk of disease low.

As a precaution, children from the impacted schools and kindergartens have been sent home until the situation improves.

The closure of educational facilities is set to last around a week while treatment continues. Pest control teams are working to eliminate the rodents and prevent further spread. Residents have been advised to follow safety guidelines until the infestation is fully under control.