GENEVA (Agencies): The World Health Organization (WHO) conducted a pandemic preparedness exercise earlier this month, simulating a global outbreak of “Mammothpox,” a fictional virus released from the remains of a woolly mammoth. The exercise, named Exercise Polaris, involved over 15 countries and tested global readiness for a new pandemic scenario, The Telegraph reported.
According to the exercise’s storyline, the fictional virus emerged after scientists and filmmakers excavated a woolly mammoth in the Arctic. Within weeks, global health systems faced overwhelming pressure, with intensive care units struggling to cope. While the participating nations successfully contained the fictional virus, WHO acknowledged that a real outbreak would be far more challenging.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned that pandemics are an “epidemiological certainty,” stressing the importance of proactive measures. The agency further highlighted risks posed by thawing permafrost in the Arctic, which may release ancient pathogens previously unknown to modern medicine.
The exercise also underscored dangers associated with ivory hunting and excavation of ancient remains without proper precautions, noting the potential for real-life biological hazards from “zombie viruses.” Researchers have already revived ancient viruses, including one dated to 48,500 years old, raising concerns about their impact on humans.
This innovative exercise serves as a critical reminder of the global need to remain vigilant and prepared for unforeseen health crises.