Plague Probe

Health officials are on alert.

The death of a 28-year-old laboratory worker at a Siberian anti-plague research institute last week sent speculation skyrocketing. After the institute and treating hospital were quarantined and ~200 contacts placed under observation, local outlets suggested she contracted pneumonic plague (yes, the Black Death).

Russian officials told the WHO there are no plague cases in the region, none of the contacts have tested positive, and the deceased was diagnosed with pneumonia of unknown origin.

Uncle Sam’s monitoring the situation, and Secretary of State Rubio’s urging Russia to share more information.

The U.S. is also monitoring measles. Cases in New York reached 108, prompting Gov. Hochul (D) to declare a statewide emergency, expanding vaccine and testing access. Neighboring Pennsylvania has seen 1,000+ cases, with five deaths; nationwide, cases have reached a 35-year high.

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PRAY WITH US
God Our Refuge, bring under the shadow of Your wings those who have lost loved ones to disease. Be a refuge, a fortress, a friend for the sick who have been quarantined, separated from their support systems.

Give doctors and public health officials skill for healing, communication, and containment. Strengthen them for a bitter fight against an unseen foe and tend to their complex grief. Bless the work of scientists and biomedical engineers racing to find new methods of protection. And shower the public with steadying grace, healing, protecting, and renewing the world through Your Word by the power of Your Spirit. Amen. (read full prayer)