Dr K.A. Paul urges an independent probe after a Russian anti-plague lab worker dies of unknown pneumonia amid reports of possible plague exposure
New Delhi: Dr. K.A. Paul has called for an independent investigation into the death of Russian laboratory technician Daria Shipilova after reports raised questions about a possible exposure to plague bacteria at the Irkutsk Anti-Plague Research Institute.
The 28-year-old technician died in Shelekhov on October 2 after developing severe pneumonia. Russian authorities have not confirmed that plague caused her death. Officials have instead described the case as pneumonia of unknown origin.
The reports have drawn attention to an alleged September 25 laboratory incident involving a test tube containing the bacterium that causes plague. Russian authorities have disputed claims that a laboratory accident occurred. They have also said that tests did not find microorganisms associated with Shipilova’s professional work in her body.
Authorities have placed nearly 200 people who could have come into contact with Shipilova under medical observation. Officials have reported no symptoms among those under observation so far, while tests have reportedly remained negative. The regional epidemiological situation, according to Russian authorities, remains stable.
Dr. Paul has nevertheless urged authorities to establish the facts surrounding the case through an independent investigation. He questioned the timeline of the reported laboratory incident, Shipilova’s subsequent illness and the wider public disclosure of the situation.
“The world cannot afford another COVID-like crisis caused by delays, lack of transparency or failure to act early,” Dr. Paul said.
The Global Peace Initiative founder said governments and international institutions should apply lessons from COVID-19 when dealing with unusual or unexplained health events. He called for transparency, scientific scrutiny, stronger surveillance and international coordination.
The situation has also attracted international attention, with reports saying the White House is monitoring developments linked to Shipilova’s death. Russian officials continue to maintain that the health situation in the Irkutsk region remains stable.
Dr. Paul said authorities should strengthen preparedness before any wider outbreak is confirmed. He also connected the issue with his earlier criticism of the global response to COVID-19 and his calls for greater accountability.
Alongside his public-health concerns, Dr. Paul referred to his international peace efforts and diplomatic engagement related to the Iran conflict. He said geopolitical tensions can also create wider economic and energy-market pressures.
He urged governments, scientists and international organisations to work together on both public-health threats and geopolitical risks.
