Infectious diseases will seed new ground as the planet warms - here's where they'll spread

A new study suggests that climate change-induced drought conditions may accelerate the evolution of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in soil. This finding highlights a potential new environmental driver for the global superbug crisis.
Why it matters
Understanding how climate change impacts microbial evolution is critical for public health preparedness and future antibiotic development.
Climate change will increase our exposure to myriad infections, from tick-borne diseases to drug-resistant bacterial infections.
By Stephanie Pappas Edited by Laura Mondrag n , Tia Ghose Published 10 September 2026 In Features MEMBER EXCLUSIVE When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here's how it works .
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