Scientists revive ‘zombie’ virus that spent thousands of years frozen in the Arctic
Warmer Arctic temperatures are thawing the region’s permafrost — a frozen layer of soil beneath the ground — and potentially stirring viruses that, after lying dormant for tens of thousands of years, could endanger animal and human health. While a pandemic unleashed by a disease from the distant past sounds like the plot of a sci-fi movie, scientists warn the risks — though low — are underappreciated. Chemical and radioactive waste that dates back to the Cold War, which has the potential to harm wildlife and disrupt ecosystems, may also be released during thaws. Watch the latest News on Channel 7 or stream for free on 7plus >> “There’s a lot going on with the permafrost that is of concern, and (it) really shows why it’s super important that we keep as much of the permafrost frozen as possible,” NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory climate scientist Kimberley Miner said. Permafrost covers a fifth of the Northern Hemisphere, having underpinned the Arctic tundra and boreal forests of Ala...