EU monitors 'very closely' suspected outbreak of pneumonic plague in Russia

The European Commission is closely monitoring a suspected outbreak of pneumonic plague in Siberia, Russia, following the death of a lab worker on October 2nd. The worker, from the Irkutsk Research Anti-Plague Institute, is believed to have contracted the disease after breaking a test tube containing the plague pathogen. Her death was attributed to pneumonia of unknown cause. In response, roughly 200 individuals who had contact with the lab worker are being closely monitored.

Russian authorities have yet to confirm the existence of a plague outbreak, but the reports have raised global alarm. Commission spokespersons have stated that public health is a top priority, and they are in contact with experts from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control to gain updates. Pneumonic plague is a highly contagious lung infection caused by Yersinia pestis, which can spread through respiratory droplets and has a high mortality rate. However, it can be effectively treated with modern antibiotics.

The Commission is relying on the World Health Organization (WHO) for updates from Russian authorities, as their communication with European counterparts has been limited since the beginning of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. For now, Brussels does not plan to convene a dedicated meeting or implement emergency measures. The US State Department has also expressed concern and urged Russia to provide accurate and timely information.

The Commission emphasized the importance of transparent reporting. It is worth noting that the plague has been absent in Europe for over 50 years.