Concerns Arise Over Researcher’s Death and Possible Plague Outbreak in Russia

The death of Darya Shipilova, an employee of the Irkutsk Anti-Plague Institute in Russia, has sparked public health concerns. Her demise has led to fears about a potential outbreak of the disease she studied. Increasing questions surround the unexplained circumstances of her case, prompting calls for clarity.

Russian authorities have identified and are monitoring individuals who were in contact with Shipilova, as per the World Health Organization (WHO). U.S. officials have called for more transparency from Moscow. This demand coincides with reports of hospitals being quarantined. Newsweek sought comments from Russia’s health watchdog, Rospotrebnadzor.

Confirmation of Plague?

The circumstances of Shipilova’s death, who worked at the Irkutsk Anti-Plague Research Institute, have led to speculation. The institute specializes in researching dangerous infections. According to the WHO, plague infections manifest in three primary forms: bubonic, pneumonic, and septicemic.

Pneumonic plague, caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, has been suggested as a potential factor in her death. However, Rospotrebnadzor stated Shipilova died from “pneumonia of unknown etiology.” They noted tests did not detect microorganisms related to her work, nor confirmed that the death was due to Y. pestis. Thus, Russia’s official stance does not confirm a plague outbreak.

The WHO confirmed that Russian officials informed them Shipilova’s illness initially resembled a typical acute respiratory viral infection. They noted there have been no plague cases recorded in Irkutsk. WHO is tracking the situation and has requested more information on the pneumonia-causing pathogen involved in the woman’s death.

Laboratory Test Findings

According to the WHO, no plague cases have been confirmed in Irkutsk, and Shipilova’s illness initially presented like an acute respiratory infection. Irkutsk’s governor, Igor Kobsev, stated no related microorganisms were detected in her body. As of Tuesday, specific test results have not been disclosed, raising concerns.

Plague News editor Amos Weiskopf highlighted the uncertainty. Despite working at a plague institute with quick testing capabilities, four days postmortem, the cause remained “unknown.”

Alleged Laboratory Accident

Unverified reports suggested Shipilova broke a test tube containing the plague pathogen and did not report the incident. Rospotrebnadzor refuted these claims, stating a special commission found no accidents involving pathogens at the institute.

Claims of regulation breaches have upset Shipilova’s former colleagues. One, Valentina, emphasized the laboratory’s stringent controls, expressing shock over the accusations. Javier Pizarro-Cerda from the Institut Pasteur in Paris noted the protective gear in such labs typically prevents exposure even if a tube is broken.

Varying Narratives

The Kremlin’s control over national media may contribute to differing official accounts from independent reports. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized reliance on Rospotrebnadzor’s official statements over rumors.

Alexei Tsydenov, the head of Buryatia, initially reported the plague involvement but later nuanced his statement. Confusion persisted as different outlets shared varying information. Independent Telegram channel People of Baikal reported local doctors discussing the plague openly.

Russian state TV covered the possibility of plague involvement once, according to Internet Archive data. This prompted an emergency meeting in Irkutsk, corroborated by Rospotrebnadzor’s statements on possible dangerous infections. Although they claim no link to Shipilova’s work, tests have yet to be released.

Hospital Quarantines

The U.S. State Department noted plague is treatable with antibiotics if treated early. Although reports suggest restricted hospital entry in Irkutsk, authorities have not confirmed this. Questions linger regarding threat management.

People of Baikal reported three city hospitals and specialized centers are under quarantine, with around 200 people under observation due to potential risk exposure. A local expectant mother confirmed screening for plague symptoms at a prenatal center.

Ulyana Gavryunina, a blogger on pregnancy, shared that the maternity hospital allowed entry only to women preparing for childbirth due to quarantine measures.

For more information on this story, contact Newsweek editors Ben Kelly and Tony Phillips.