Irkutsk:T government has confirmed that laboratory results found no traces of the plague in Russia, urging the public to remain calm and avoid panic.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Ploytalay Laksmisangchan, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, stated that in response to concerns about a possible plague outbreak in Irkutsk, Russian Federation, the Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, conducted investigations with the International Health Regulations Coordinating Network. The findings revealed that lab tests did not detect the plague bacteria, and there is no confirmed evidence of an outbreak.
The government has instructed the Department of Disease Control to maintain close monitoring of the situation and to coordinate with international disease surveillance networks. This is to ensure that the public receives accurate and timely information.
The deputy spokesperson explained that the plague is caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, which can be transmitted to humans through infected flea bites or contact with infected animals. Pneumonic plague can spread through respiratory droplets during close contact with an infected person.
Individuals returning from high-risk areas who experience symptoms such as high fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, cough, or difficulty breathing are advised to seek immediate medical attention and disclose their travel history for proper diagnosis and treatment. The disease is treatable with antibiotics if addressed promptly.
The government also advises the public to verify facts before sharing information and to rely on official sources for news in order to prevent the spread of misinformation.