The Smerconish Podcast · Episode 2058 · October 6, 2026 · 24 min

Did Russia Just Have a Plague Lab Leak? Annie Jacobsen Sounds the Alarm

Reports of a mysterious death at a Russian laboratory are raising fears about pneumonic plague—and the circumstances sound eerily similar to the scenario Annie Jacobsen laid out in her latest book, "Biological War." Jacobsen joins Michael Smerconish to explain what makes pneumonic plague so dangerous, why Russia’s secrecy and quarantine response are drawing scrutiny, and what signs she’ll be watching for next. They also discuss the possibility of weaponized pathogens, gain-of-function research, and whether the United States would be prepared if a deadly outbreak escaped containment. Original air date 6 October 2026.