The Aporia
The Aporia
A 28-year-old lab technician named Darya Shipilova died of pneumonic plague in Siberia after breaking a test tube at the Irkutsk Anti-Plague Institute on September 29, leading to her death two days later. Nearly 200 people who had contact with Shipilova were placed under quarantine. Russian authorities quarantined several hospitals and enforced mask mandates in response. The incident raised concerns about a potential cover-up by the Putin regime, prompting comparisons to the early stages of the COVID-19 outbreak in Wuhan. Despite initial fears, none of those under observation have shown symptoms or tested positive for plague, according to Russian health officials. The U.S. State Department is monitoring the situation closely and has urged Russia to share accurate information. Reports suggest that pneumonic plague can be treated with antibiotics if caught early. Governor Igor Kobzev stated that all identified contacts remain asymptomatic and negative in tests conducted so far. Former Rospotrebnadzor head Gennady Onishchenko downplayed the threat, stating cooler temperatures would help contain potential spread. The White House is also monitoring developments and assessing options. Despite these measures, there are lingering concerns about transparency from Russian authorities regarding the incident's details.
