Legendary Magadan epidemiologist celebrates 85 years of life and service

Nattela Tkavadze, a respected epidemiologist in Magadan Region, has marked her 85th birthday. Born on May 8, 1941, in Novorossiysk, she has dedicated over 50 years to the area’s healthcare system. Colleagues and officials gathered to honour her long career and achievements.

Tkavadze graduated from Rostov State Medical University before relocating to the Kolyma region half a century ago. Today, she continues her work as the head of a department and an epidemiologist at the Magadan Regional Center for Hygiene and Epidemiology.

Dmitry Shapovalov, a member of the Kolyma Regional Parliament, attended the celebration to present her with a commemorative address. The message, signed by Anatoly Shirokov, Chairman of the Magadan Oblast Duma, recognised her contributions to public health and her role in training younger doctors. Shapovalov also handed over a valuable gift from the regional legislature. Among the well-wishers was Dmitry Borovikov, chief physician of the regional Center for Hygiene and Epidemiology. Over the years, Tkavadze has earned multiple honours, including Excellence in Healthcare, Veteran of Labor, and Honored Healthcare Professional of Magadan. She was also named an Honored Worker of Russia’s State Sanitary and Epidemiological Service.

The commemorative address highlighted Tkavadze’s lasting impact on Magadan’s healthcare and her dedication to guiding new medical professionals. Her career spans five decades, with ongoing work at the forefront of epidemiology in the region.