Amid the growing discussion about #plague, let’s focus on FACTS: 1. Plague is caused by the bacteria Yersinia pestis. 2. There are three main clinical forms: bubonic (lymph nodes), septicemic (bloodstream), and pneumonic (lungs). 3. Pneumonic plague can spread between people through respiratory droplets during close contact. 4. Plague can be deadly, but prompt antibiotic treatment saves lives. 5. Exposed close contacts may also need preventive antibiotics. While concern is appropriate, calling this “the next COVID” is premature. We need verified information, transparent reporting, and a strong public health response—not speculation.

Yersinia pestis which causes plague is NOT a virus, its a bacteria. They have very different properties and mechanisms of action.

Because I am seeing lots of posts about #plague, here are a few thoughts on the reports from Russia: Yes, plague is a serious infection and anything involving a high-containment laboratory warrants thorough investigation. BUT right now, we have an unexplained death from pneumonia—not confirmation of plague and certainly NO evidence of a plague outbreak. It’s appropriate to watch closely and ask questions. It’s not helpful to fill gaps in information with speculation and sensationalism. Good outbreak response starts with the same thing every time: -- follow the evidence.