US issues urgent Russia travel alert after lab worker Darya Shipilova dies in suspected plague case

The US Embassy in Moscow has issued a health alert and travel warning for Americans after a lab worker in the Irkutsk region of Russia died from a suspected case of pneumonic plague. Darya Shipilova, a 28-year-old laboratory technician at the Irkutsk Research Anti-Plague Institute, passed away last week, prompting international concern and local safety measures.

The US government has limited ability to assist Americans outside Moscow, and U.S. citizens are advised to leave Russia immediately due to security and health risks. The CDC recommends monitoring health for 14 days after travel and reviewing travel insurance options. The State Department's Level 4 Travel Advisory remains in effect, urging Americans in Russia to depart as soon as possible and discouraging travel to the country due to wrongful detention and security concerns.