The World Health Organization (WHO) is seeking further information from Russian authorities after a laboratory worker at the Irkutsk Anti-Plague Research Institute died following severe pneumonia, amid reports of possible pneumonic plague exposure.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said initial media reports suggested pneumonic plague following an alleged accidental laboratory exposure. He said WHO had requested clarification under the International Health Regulations, adding: “Timely, complete and transparent information sharing” is essential to assess potential health risks.
Key developments:
- Russian authorities told WHO that no recent plague cases had been registered in the Irkutsk oblast.
- Around 200 contacts were placed under medical observation as a precautionary measure.
- Russian health officials said testing had not identified dangerous pathogens linked to the worker’s professional activities.
- WHO requested more details on laboratory results, public health measures and reports of a second employee with pneumonia.
WHO said it cannot complete a full risk assessment until additional information is received. The organisation has offered technical support on plague response and laboratory biosafety.
ℹ️ World Health Organisation (WHO)
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