Researchers using drones to monitor whale droplets believe they have detected an infectious virus circulating in the Arctic Circle.
Samples of whale ‘blows’ confirmed the presence of cetacean morbillivirus, which affects both whales, dolphins and porpoises.
The disease is highly infectious between species and can spread across oceans killing on mass.
It is thought to be behind dozens of strandings of the mammals.
Several species were analysed including humpbacks, sperm and fin whales in the north east Atlantic Ocean.
Among cetaceans found to have the virus was a stranded pilot whale in northern Norway.
Herpesviruses were also found in humpback whales off the coasts of Norway, Iceland, and Cape Verde.
Scientists believe the ‘game-changer’ drones will allow for threats to be spotted before they greatly affect marine life and spread rapidly.
The cutting-edge equipment catches water droplets using petri dishes, which are then studied for pathogens.
Skin biopses and one organ sample were collected during the study and tested for infections.
Samples are collected when the mammals rise to the surface to breathe through blowholes.
The research was conducted by King’s College London, The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and Nord University in Norway.
Professor Terry Dawson from KCL said the study would provide ‘critical insights’ into marine health without harming the whales.
Helena Costa of Nord University, said the methods would be used as ‘long-term surveillance’ to understand how the viruses affect whale health over time.
Up to 2,000 cetaceans beach themselves every year.
Cetacean morbillivirus was first discovered in 1987. It can damage the respiratory, neurological and immune systems.
The latest findings have also raised concerns about outbreaks in the winter feeding season, during which whales, seabirds, and humans come in close contact.
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