Russia Denies Second Plague Case After Lab Worker's Death in Irkutsk

news18.com —

Russia has denied reports of a second pneumonic plague case linked to an Irkutsk anti-plague institute, calling the claims false, amid international concern over a lab worker's death. The World Health Organization has sought clarification from Moscow on the situation. Authorities maintain 28-year-old Darya Shipilova died from pneumonia of unknown cause, not plague, with post-mortem exams finding no work-related infection. Russian officials said nearly 5,000 tests found no dangerous pathogens, and the situation in the Irkutsk region remains stable. Residents in Shelekhov reported anxiety over unclear information, with some placed under observation or quarantine. Precautionary measures include contact tracing and hospital restrictions, while US President Donald Trump has offered assistance to Russia.


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