US Embassy Urges Americans to Leave Russia After Possible Plague Case in Irkutsk

The U.S. Embassy in Russia urged American citizens to leave the country immediately following reports of a possible pneumonic plague case in the Irkutsk region. The advisory was issued on Tuesday, October 6. The embassy noted limited U.S. government assistance capabilities in Russia, especially outside Moscow, and cited the State Department's highest Level 4 "Do Not Travel" warning. Americans in Irkutsk were advised to follow local health guidelines and seek medical help if symptoms appear. The warning follows the death of researcher Darya Shipilova, who may have broken a plague pathogen vial on September 25. Russian authorities quarantined medical facilities and monitored about 200 contacts, though tests were negative and plague infection remains unconfirmed.