On September 28, 1878, an elderly Cossack from the Vetlyanskaya stanitsa, located near Astrakhan, Agap Khritonov, complained to his relatives about severe headaches, malaise, and a strange bubo under his arm. He was treated with folk remedies, but unsuccessfully, and on October 2, he passed away. Soon, a local feldsher discovered similar symptoms in other residents, who were also dying in agony. They realized it was the plague too late. Within a few weeks, the disease spread throughout the Caspian region. According to some reports, the plague was brought to Russia from Persia. Dozens of doctors, paramedics, and nurses from various parts of the country rushed to help the local residents, risking their lives, as effective protective measures did not exist at that time.

At this time, medical doctor and pathophysiologist Viktor Vasilyevich Pashutin intervened, working on the development of a plague protective suit. The outfit included a jumpsuit, a gown, a hood, and, most importantly, a special filter with ventilation. It was assumed that a doctor in such a suit could work even in the most infected areas without risking their health. Pashutin also considered the comfort of the medical staff: the suit allowed for easy removal of a hand to wipe the fogged visor of the helmet or scratch the nose. The plague suit was designed to be wide enough to be worn over winter clothing. The only drawback was its cost, 40 rubles per set, which limited its distribution.

Nevertheless, this suit became the basis for all modern protective suits. Over time, with advancements in science, Pashutin's set was improved: rubber boots, gloves, and a more sophisticated respirator resembling a gas mask were added. As for the epidemic in the Caspian, it was only contained in 1879. Thus, this outbreak was the reason for the creation of the unique plague protective suit.