Researcher Dies in Russia from Plague; Taiwan CDC Inquires with WHO for Verification

On October 2, 2026, Darya Shipilova, a 28-year-old researcher at the "Siberia and Far East Anti-Plague Research Institute" in Irkutsk, Russia, died from severe pneumonia. She was admitted to the hospital on September 29 and placed on a ventilator, passing away three days later. 🔷 Official Investigation Conclusion The Russian Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Wellbeing reported on the 6th that the cause of death was diagnosed as "pneumonia of unknown origin," and no microorganisms related to her professional activities were found in the patient's samples. The Biosafety Supervisory Committee also confirmed that no accidents occurred at the institution. Nearly 200 contacts underwent medical observation, all testing negative for pulmonary plague, and no other staff members fell ill in the past 10 days. 🔷 International Reactions and Controversy WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that they are actively following the situation and have provided technical support to Russia, but cannot conduct a comprehensive risk assessment due to a lack of complete information. US President Trump said he is closely monitoring the situation and is willing to offer assistance, but believes it is not a leak of biological weapons. 🔴 The controversy lies in Russia's inconsistent statements. Officials initially linked the death to plague, with the governor of the Republic of Buryatia announcing she died of plague, only for officials to later deny this. Pro-government media also deleted related reports. Local media subsequently reported a second suspected death, which the Kremlin dismissed as "fake news." The truth remains to be clarified. I saw this news before and thought it wouldn't affect Taiwan. But it feels like this topic is escalating, and people claiming to be former high-ranking officials, experts, or prophets are starting to post warnings 😑