Home · World · Oct 6 archive
US Closely Watches Russian Plague Lab Incident
Developing
In Short: The incident has raised fears that the worker, Darya Shipilova, may have contracted pneumonic plague, though Russian officials have stated that tests detected no microorganisms associated with her professional activities.
A 28-year-old employee at a Siberian plague research institute died from a mysterious case of pneumonia, prompting Russian authorities to quarantine a hospital and place scores of people under medical observation.
The incident has raised fears that the worker, Darya Shipilova, may have contracted pneumonic plague, though Russian officials have stated that tests detected no microorganisms associated with her professional activities.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is currently traveling in Europe, said the U.S. is closely monitoring the situation but does not believe it is cause for alarm.
Rubio noted that travel between Russia and the U.S. is limited, but warned that any potential spread of the illness could quickly become a global concern.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov urged the public to rely on official information rather than rumors or speculation.
Neighboring countries, including Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan, have also increased border health precautions following the case.
The extraordinary measures taken by Russian authorities have fueled speculation both within and outside the country.
What's still developing
- Darya Shipilova worked at the Irkutsk Anti-Plague Research Institute of Siberia and the Far East.