A suspected pneumonic plague outbreak has occurred in Siberia, resulting in the death of a laboratory technician. The technician, who worked at a plague research centre, died of suspected pneumonic plague infection, prompting Russian authorities to quarantine a hospital and monitor nearly 200 people who had contact with the deceased. The US has stated it is ready to aid Russia with the outbreak, with Donald Trump saying the US is looking very strongly at the case.
The World Health Organization notes the public health risk to the general population appears to be low. Russian authorities have taken measures to contain the outbreak, including quarantining a hospital.
The US is watching the situation closely and is prepared to provide assistance to Russia. The situation is being monitored by both the US and the World Health Organization, with the US ready to provide aid if needed.
Evidence lens
2 independent sources supported this briefing.