A worker at Russia’s Irkutsk Anti-Plague Research Institute in Siberia has died after developing pneumonia of unknown origin, prompting authorities to quarantine a hospital and monitor people who had contact with her.
Russian health authorities said extensive testing found no evidence that the illness was caused by pathogens associated with the woman’s work at the institute. They also reported finding no evidence of an incident involving pathogenic microorganisms at the facility. Around 200 people who had contact with the woman have been placed under medical observation, according to reports.
The case has nevertheless triggered concern after unconfirmed reports suggested that the worker may have died from pneumonic plague, a severe form of plague that affects the lungs. Authorities have not confirmed plague as the cause of death and have urged people to rely on official information rather than speculation.
The World Health Organization says plague is caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis. Pneumonic plague can spread between people through respiratory particles and is particularly serious because it can progress rapidly. However, early diagnosis and antibiotic treatment can be effective.
Authorities have said the situation remains under control, with known contacts identified and monitored. Some people who were tested reportedly had COVID-19 or viruses associated with common respiratory infections, while no new plague infections had been confirmed at the time of reporting.
The investigation into the woman’s illness and the exact cause of death remains ongoing.

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