EU monitors possible plague outbreak in Siberia

The European Commission is closely monitoring a potential outbreak of pneumonic plague in Siberia and is ready to coordinate response measures among member states if necessary. The announcement came from a Commission spokesperson on Monday, October 5. The Commission stated it is aware of reports about an incident in a Russian laboratory linked to the plague pathogen. It is in contact with experts from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, and stressed that after COVID-19, countries are better prepared for pandemics and have antibiotic stockpiles. According to Russian media, a 28-year-old researcher broke a test tube with the plague pathogen on September 25 and died on October 2. Authorities quarantined medical facilities and monitored nearly 200 contacts, though the diagnosis was not confirmed. The White House is also following the reports.