"Climate Change Threat: Deadly 'Factor X' Virus Lurking in Earth's Permafrost Could Wipe Out Humanity"

Scientists warn that a deadly 'Factor X' virus could be lurking in Earth's permafrost, which is filled with dormant microbial species. Climate change has increased the likelihood of releasing ancient diseases, including smallpox, as the planet continues to warm. Experts have identified six frozen pathogens that pose the biggest threat to humanity. In 2016, a heatwave in Siberia activated deadly anthrax spores, highlighting the dangers of melting permafrost. The Arctic could see ice-free summers by the 2030s, and the release of unknown, ancient pathogens could have disastrous effects.