Russian officials report no plague cases in Irkutsk after lab technician's death

Russian authorities have reported no plague cases in Irkutsk following the death of a lab technician, according to the World Health Organization, which said the woman's illness appeared to be a typical respiratory viral infection. The 28-year-old technician, identified as Darya Shipilova, died Friday from pneumonia of unknown origin, sparking speculation about pneumonic plague. Russia's health watchdog said extensive testing found no pathogens linked to her work, though two COVID-19 and two rhinovirus cases were detected among contacts. Around 60 percent of roughly 200 quarantined individuals have been released, and local residents report minimal disruption. The Kremlin thanked former President Trump for his offer of assistance, while Health Canada said it sees no risk to Canada.