Lab worker dies in Russia from unknown pneumonia linked to suspected plague, prompting health precautions for nearly 200 people
Infection outbreak
The 28-year-old woman was diagnosed with pneumonia of an “unknown” origin, linked to suspected plague by Buryatia’s head, Alexey Tsydenov.
Around 200 people who worked at the Shelekhov hospital treating her have been placed under observation.
An aluminium plant near the contaminated lab has advised staff to wear face masks as a precaution.
Former head of Rospotrebnadzor, Gennady Onishckenko, stated that the outbreak is “most likely not the plague”.
He reassured the public that there would be “no spread of this disease”.
Health measures
Investigation efforts continue to determine the source of the infection.
Authorities are monitoring the situation closely with heightened alert measures.
Public health officials aim to prevent potential panic among the community.
Ongoing assessments will reveal whether further precautions are necessary.
