ECDC closely monitoring situation following case of pneumonia of unknown origin in Russia
Following the reported death of a laboratory worker in Irkutsk, Russia, from pneumonia that is suspected to be pneumonic plague, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) is closely monitoring the situation. Based on the limited information currently available, there are no reports of secondary cases and no evidence of sustained human-to-human transmission that would cause further spread of the disease.
Pneumonic plague is a serious infectious disease that is transmitted through cough droplets. However, there has not been a case of plague in the EU for decades, and the disease can be effectively treated with antibiotics readily available in the European Union. Transmission also generally requires close and prolonged contact with an infected person who is already showing symptoms.
Patients with suspected or confirmed pneumonic plague should be isolated and offered appropriate treatment as assessed by a specialised healthcare provider. Close contacts should be rapidly identified and monitored.
ECDC will continue to monitor the event, and is proactively in contact with WHO Europe to discuss the situation.
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Plague is caused by Yersinia pestis bacteria. Blood sucking fleas transmit the bacteria among animals, and various species of rodents can become infected.
Detailed information on plague for healthcare professionals.