An expert has warned the world's next pandemic could be caused by the effects of climate change on melting soil, which could unfreeze ancient microbes.
Dr Dennis Carroll's comments come as scientists reveal new research on the impact of rising temperatures on Arctic soil, which could trigger the "the potential release of pathogens from thawing permafrost." Bacteria frozen from thousands of years ago could possess unfamiliar, or previously eradicated diseases.
Speaking to Metro Online, Dr Carroll said: Dr Carroll explained: "The world is faced with the very real prospect that ancient microbes which have long lay dormant beneath the frozen tundra will be given a new life with climate change and the thawing of the Arctic north. "The risks