Experts revived giant viruses from permafrost, some dating back as far as 48,500 years, showing that certain pathogens can survive the frozen environment and possibly pose a threat to modern species.
Warmer temperatures in the Arctic are causing the permafrost—a layer of frozen soil beneath the surface—to thaw, potentially awakening dormant viruses that have been buried for tens of thousands of years.
Scientists caution that while the risk of a pandemic from these ancient pathogens is low, it is a largely underappreciated danger. Additionally, the thaw could release chemical and radioactive waste from the Cold War, further disrupting ecosystems and threatening wildlife.
Permafrost, which covers about one-fifth of the Northern Hemisphere, acts like a time capsule, preserving not only ancient viruses but also mummified remains of extinct animals. Researchers like Jean-Michel Claverie have been studying frozen samples of Siberian permafrost to determine whether viral particles remain infectious.
And the results are troubling.
Although the likelihood of human exposure to these ancient viruses is currently low, the risk is expected to rise as global warming accelerates the thawing of permafrost.
The potential for viral spillover—when a virus infects a new host species—could increase, particularly in regions like the Arctic, which are seeing more human activity due to industrial ventures. Scientists emphasize the need for better surveillance and a proactive approach to prevent potential future outbreaks, though the exact extent of the risk remains uncertain.
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