Drooid Logo
Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

First Arctic Detection of Infectious Virus in Whales

1/2/2026

42 9 Full Breakdown

1 of 1

Story summary
  • Scientists detected cetacean morbillivirus in humpback whales in northern Norway using drones to collect samples, marking the first Arctic identification.
  • The study, led by Helena Costa, a veterinarian, shows the virus is circulating in northern ecosystems.
  • Cetacean morbillivirus is highly infectious among marine mammals and has caused outbreaks globally.
  • Some infected animals show no symptoms, while others develop severe health issues, highlighting surveillance gaps in the Arctic.