As Earth’s temperatures rapidly rise, it’s causing the potential release of ancient viruses from once-frozen permafrost, putting our ecosystems and health at risk from a variety of threats.
According to a report by Pandora Dewan in Newsweek, scientists are alarmed by the return of viruses preserved in permafrost for tens of thousands of years, fearing it could signal the emergence of dangerous new pathogens.
Infectious disease specialist Birgitta Evengård expressed concerns about a mysterious “Factor X” that remains largely unknown, underlining the urgency of further research.
The rise in zoonotic diseases, originating from wildlife populations, is a key concern. Studies show that these diseases are increasing in both number and diversity, with the death toll expected to rise annually.
The spillover of diseases from animals to humans is only expected to increase as humans encroach on more animal habitats due to climate change.
The possibility of ancient pathogens making a comeback is highlighted by the 2016 outbreak of anthrax in Siberia, caused by an infected animal carcass that had thawed. It’s a reminder that ancient diseases can still pose a significant threat.
Recent studies have demonstrated the ability of bacteria and viruses to survive for millions of years in frozen conditions, and their potential to be reawakened.
Despite uncertainties regarding the likelihood of viral infections, increased glacial melt in the Arctic is potentially releasing trapped viruses, increasing the risk of a spillover into susceptible host populations.
As the rate of glacial melt accelerates, the potential for emerging pandemics in the previously frozen north becomes more significant, according to a University of Ottawa study.
The unknown factors contained within long-frozen ice are a cause for concern, especially as they have the potential to surprise us.
Evengård’s message to Dewan highlights the pressing need for further research into the permafrost and its contents, as there is much that remains unknown.
