pneumonia

Cause Undetermined in Siberian Researcher’s Death

After a laboratory researcher in Siberia died of pneumonia of unknown cause, reports raised fears of a possible pneumonic plague outbreak, including claims of quarantines and medical observation; the cause remains unconfirmed. Russian authorities say tests found no work-related pathogens, while the U.S. says it is monitoring the situation and a former CIA officer warns that any perceived cover-up could deepen distrust of Moscow amid economic and wartime strains.