August M
Scientists studying whales in the Arctic have uncovered a potentially lethal virus using an unusual new technique. The finding has raised concerns about marine health in a region already under pressure from environmental change.
The discovery was made through years of research involving international teams and emerging technology.
Breath sampling breakthrough
According to WPtech, researchers identified a virus harmful to whales by analysing breath samples collected with drones. The work involved scientists from King’s College London, the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, and universities in Norway.
The Polish Press Agency reported that drones were deployed in northern Norway to gather samples from humpback whales, sperm whales and fin whales.
The method allowed scientists to examine whale health without physical contact.
Drones were fitted with sterile Petri dishes and flown through the mist expelled from whales’ nostrils. The collected aerosol samples were later analysed in laboratories.
Virus identified
Testing revealed the presence of cetacean morbillivirus, a member of the Paramyxoviridae family.
The virus has previously been detected in dolphins and is linked to mass strandings and high mortality rates among marine mammals.
“Drone-based sampling is a breakthrough. It allows us to monitor pathogens in living whales without stress or harm, providing valuable information on diseases in rapidly changing Arctic ecosystems,” said Professor Terry Dawson from King’s College London, according to a press release.
While researchers did not detect avian influenza viruses or Brucella bacteria, the identification of morbillivirus has prompted concern.
Why it matters
The virus was detected in an area that attracts dense concentrations of whales and seabirds during winter months.
Scientists say this raises questions about how diseases may spread in the Arctic as ecosystems change.
The research, conducted between 2016 and 2025, also included skin biopsies and organ samples.
These were subjected to molecular testing to better understand how pathogens interact with shifting environmental conditions.
Monitoring a changing Arctic
Helena Costa of Nord University said continued development of research methods is essential for tracking the health of whales and other marine mammals.
Scientists involved in the study say non-invasive techniques like drone sampling could become increasingly important as Arctic waters warm and human activity in the region expands.
Sources: WPtech, Polish Press Agency
