Social distancing may clear up the air temporarily, but some of the factors and human behaviors that contribute to climate change may also be linked to the cause of pandemics. That includes deforestation and other actions that bring wildlife and humans closer together, and also how extreme weather affects various animal populations.
Boston University scientists are studying what these correlations mean for the health of humans, animals, and the planet. Associate Professor of Earth and Environment Michael Dietze, along with faculty from the School of Public Health and School of Medicine, spoke with The Brink about his research on deer ticks and how an increase in temperature means scientists have to rethink how animal-borne illnesses spread.
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