Photo credit: U.S. Fish and Wildlife ServiceThe occurrence of disease and parasites in polar bears is considered rare. However, with warming Arctic temperatures, species that traditionally live in more southern ecosystems may move into the Arctic, and as a result, novel pathogens and diseases may be introduced. Given this, the potential for widespread disease outbreaks, and exposure and susceptibility to existing and new pathogens increases. Such impacts may be exacerbated as polar bears experience nutritional stress.
Source: Circumpolar Action Plan
