US tracking Russian plague outbreak

Secretary of State Rubio says White House and Pentagon following spread of plague bacteria after lab accident in southern Russia; neighboring countries close borders

Eliana Fleming

OCT 5, 2026 23:48

2 min read

Secretary of State Marco Rubio revealed that the White House is monitoring with concern a significant outbreak of plague bacteria in Russia. Experts estimate that the porous border between Russia and Ukraine and the chaotic fighting on the ground could lead to accelerated spread of the disease.

Speaking to reporters, Rubio explained that the White House and the Pentagon are tracking the spread of plague bacteria following a laboratory accident in southern Russia. According to Rubio, "There is no reason to panic, but we are closely monitoring the situation and following the developments and changes."

Earlier, several countries bordering Russia announced measures not seen since the coronavirus pandemic. Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Mongolia declared the closure of border crossings with Russia and the start of intensive medical screening processes, including the possibility of quarantine and isolation before entry into the country.

The drama began in recent days when it was revealed that a young laboratory researcher and assistant accidentally broke a test tube containing live Yersinia pestis bacteria, rare and dangerous bacteria considered the main cause behind plagues such as the bubonic plague and Europe's Black Death.

President Trump joined Rubio's remarks and said in a White House briefing that he is "following the situation very closely."