Global warming is occurring four times faster in the Nordics than in the rest of the world. The heated climate means that the northern limit of the distribution of many species is moving, and with it also the risk of diseases that they bring with them.
– Much suggests that it is the rodents and insects that will increase. With the rodents, we have both harpest and vole fever, says Birgitta Evengård, professor emerita at Umeå University.
The fact that infections transmitted from animals can have serious consequences for humans was a clear example of covid-19. Distemper, TBE and Lyme disease are examples of diseases that are transmitted from animals to humans.
Prevent the spread of infection
By setting up a number of stations around the Nordic region where you regularly investigate and report on infections in nature, the researchers believe that you can prevent new diseases and viruses from spreading to people.
The proposal is presented to the Nordic Council of Ministers as part of their work to achieve goal one “Socially sustainable Nordics” which is part of the work with Vision 2030.
Hear Birgitta Evengård tell more in the clip.