Plague fears in Siberia: How are Irkutsk residents reacting?

7 Oct 2026 • 7:28 PM MYT
Euronews
Euronews

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Plague fears in Siberia: How are Irkutsk residents reacting?

Residents of the Siberian city of Irkutsk have reacted to reports that a worker at the local Research Institute for Plague Control died from suspected pneumonic plague.

Authorities say the cause of death has not been confirmed, while Russia’s health watchdog Rospotrebnadzor has denied claims that special measures were introduced.

Some residents say they are not particularly concerned, noting that no cases have been confirmed and that people who had contact with the worker were isolated.

Others remain sceptical about the official explanation, with some questioning whether there was a laboratory leak or suggesting that more could be happening behind the scenes.

Watch the video for more.

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