IZHEVSK, November 18 (RIA Novosti)- Mikhail Kalashnikov, the 94-year-old inventor of the world’s most popular firearm, the AK-47, has been admitted to intensive care, officials in Russia’s republic of Udmurtia said Monday.
Udmurtia Health Minister Vladimir Muzlov said Kalashnikov is being treated at a state cardiology center in the regional capital of Izhevsk.
“The necessary procedures are being carried out to ensure that he can be back on his feet as soon as possible,” Muzlov said. “Mikhail Timofeyevich will receive all the treatment he needs today.”
The Kalashnikov concern said Monday that the famed inventor was undergoing planned medical treatment and his life was not in danger.
“Mikhail Kalashnikov was hospitalized on November 18 as part of his preventive treatment program. He undergoes such treatment two or three times a year to keep him in good health,” said Yelena Filatova, a spokeswoman for the weapons manufacturer.
Kalashnikov’s health began to worsen around the time of his birthday on November 10, his son, Viktor, told RIA Novosti.
“It is nothing terrible. He is undergoing preventative treatment,” Viktor Kalashnikov said.
Mikhail Kalashnikov has been suffering from ill health for some time. In June, he was hospitalized in Moscow to be fitted with a pacemaker.
Updates with comment from the Kalashnikov concern, clarifies location of Izhevsk
