The Philippine National Police (PNP) has issued a public warning against the recent spread of unverified information regarding an apparent pneumonic plague in Russia.

PNP Chief PGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said this may result in a surge of undue panic and fear, despite the Department of Health (DOH) already addressing the issue, assuring the public of its preparedness to respond when necessary, reported RH 52 Edniel Parrosa.

This follows an incident wherein a Siberian laboratory staff member died of acute pneumonia due to unidentified causes.

Almost 200 individuals had undergone medical observation afterwards, while an entire hospital was placed under quarantine.

The PNP urged the public to heed only official reports issued by government agencies concerning the development, and warned that persons found sharing falsehoods may face legal consequences.