Water drops fall from melting ice.
Ice melts from thawing permafrost in Newtok, Alaska.
  • Scientists are studying a new threat emerging from melting permafrost: ancient viruses.
  • A new study says these pathogens could pose significant risks to modern-day humans.
  • The authors say the chances of a catastrophic re-emergence are low but worrisome.

As permafrost thaws across the world due to a warming climate, scientists are researching a potential new threat: The emergence of ancient viruses trapped in the frost for tens of thousands of years.