Evidence of Cetacean Morbillivirus in Arctic Whales
An analysis of breath samples from humpback whales, sperm whales, and fin whales using advanced drone technology in northern Norway has revealed the first confirmation of a potentially deadly virus known as cetacean morbillivirus circulating above the Arctic Circle. Conducted by researchers at King’s College London and the Royal School of Veterinary Studies in the United Kingdom, the findings were published in the journal BMC Veterinary Research on December 19, 2025.
Innovative Research Techniques
The sustainable approach taken by the researchers involved using consumer drones equipped with sterilized Petri dishes. These drones flew over the blowholes of the whales, capturing respiratory droplets safely and without stressing the animals. Terry Dawson from King’s College London stated, “Drone blow sampling is revolutionary. It allows us to monitor pathogens in live whales without stress or harm, providing crucial information on diseases in rapidly evolving Arctic ecosystems.”
From 2016 to 2025, the study covered a wide geographical area, sampling whales in the northeast Atlantic, including locations in Norway, Iceland, and Cape Verde. Besides the breath samples, researchers also collected skin biopsies and, in one case, an organ sample, which were analyzed for infectious agents using molecular laboratory tests.
The Risks of Cetacean Morbillivirus
The team identified the cetacean morbillivirus, a strain first recognized in dolphins, in various groups of whales. Notably, they found the virus in pods of humpback whales off northern Norway, a malnourished sperm whale, and even a stranded pilot whale. This virus is known to be highly pathogenic, leading to serious respiratory, neurological, and immune system failures in whales, dolphins, and porpoises. Since its discovery in 1987, it has caused multiple mass mortality events among cetacean populations.
The research raises alarms about the potential for outbreaks, particularly during dense winter feeding aggregations, where interactions between whales, seabirds, and humans increase the likelihood of viral transmission.
Additional Findings and Concerns
Alongside cetacean morbillivirus, herpesviruses were also detected in humpback whales in the region. However, the study did not find evidence of bird flu or the Brucella bacteria, pathogens often linked to marine mammal strandings.
These findings highlight the urgent need for ongoing monitoring and research. The presence of pathogens such as morbillivirus could significantly impact whale populations and their ecosystems, especially as these environments experience rapid changes due to climate factors and human activity.
Conclusion: A Call for Vigilance
This groundbreaking research emphasizes the importance of understanding and mitigating the risks posed by emerging marine pathogens. As the Arctic ecosystem evolves, so must our efforts to study and protect these majestic creatures from potentially fatal diseases. Continued vigilance will be essential in safeguarding marine biodiversity against the ever-changing landscape of threats.