Shipilova worked
at the Irkutsk Anti-Plague Institute when the accident happened with Yersinia
pestis bacteria, the cause of pneumonic plague. Russian officials call her
death pneumonia of unknown cause and say the region remains stable, with nearly
200 contacts under watch showing no symptoms.
Independent reports confirm the plague link,
leading to quarantines at five hospitals, class cancellations, and a mask
mandate at a local plant. The U.S. White House and CDC are monitoring, urging
Russia to share details amid calls for flight restrictions.
