Overview
- Researchers sampled humpback, sperm and fin whales from 2016–2025 across northern Norway, Iceland and Cape Verde using consumer drones carrying sterile Petri dishes.
- Genetic screening identified cetacean morbillivirus in humpback groups in northern Norway, a sperm whale in poor condition, and a stranded pilot whale.
- Herpesviruses were detected in humpback populations across all three regions, while no avian influenza virus or Brucella was found in the sampled groups.
- Authors warn that dense winter feeding aggregations in Arctic waters may raise transmission risk as ecosystems change.
- The study, led by Nord University with partners including King’s College London and The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, was published in BMC Veterinary Research and urges long-term, non-invasive surveillance.