Terrifying ‘Zombie Viruses’ Discovered in the Arctic Permafrost
The melting Arctic permafrost is not just a consequence of climate change; it poses a potential global health emergency. Scientists have discovered ancient "zombie viruses" that have been dormant for thousands of years in the frozen soil of the Arctic. These viruses, also known as Methuselah microbes, have the potential to cause a catastrophic pandemic if unleashed.
The Arctic permafrost, covering nearly 20% of the Earth's northern hemisphere, has preserved biological material for thousands of years due to its cold, dark, and oxygen-lacking environment. Geneticist Jean-Michel Claverie from Aix-Marseille University explains that permafrost is capable of preserving biological material for an astonishingly long time. In fact, he suggests that one could place a yogurt in permafrost, and it ...