Scientific research begins at Turkish Antarctic camp

ANTARCTICA - FEB. 18: A scientific team arrived at the Turkish Scientific Research Camp on Horseshoe Island at 68° south latitude after a 10-day journey.The 9th National Antarctic Scientific Expedition continues under the auspices of the Presidency, under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Industry and Technology, and in coordination with the TÜBİTAK MAM Polar Research Institute.A Chilean-flagged vessel Betanzos, carrying the scientists, departed from King George Island and anchored off Lystad Bay after approximately five days at sea.Braving severe storms and heavy snowfall, the team reached the Turkish Scientific Research Camp by boat to commence their studies.Following their arrival, the 20-member scientific team raised the Turkish flag and sang the national anthem.Identified in the 1960s and constantly evolving, avian influenza has periodically caused deadly outbreaks.The latest outbreak began in the Northern Hemisphere in late 2020 with the H5N1 strain, resulting in the deaths of numerous birds.As the disease spread to the Southern Hemisphere through bird migration, the risk of its transmission to Antarctica became a growing concern.To address this, a high-pathogenicity avian influenza protocol was developed by the Istanbul Faculty of Medicine’s Department of Underwater and Hyperbaric Medicine under the Polar Training, Safety, and Health Working Group for scientists conducting research in Antarctica.As part of this protocol, scientists disinfected their boats and clothing with special solutions when moving between the ship and land.This measure aimed to protect Antarctica’s unique flora and fauna and prevent the introduction of non-native species to the continent.Additionally, researchers working in close contact with wildlife followed strict safety measures in the field, wearing masks, gloves, goggles, and protective clothing. (Footage by Şebnem Coşkun /Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)