Zombie deer disease, scientifically known as Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), is a progressive, fatal illness affecting deer and related species across the United States. Recently detected in Indiana, CWD now impacts 33 states, sparking concerns for hunters and public health officials. As research advances, scientists warn of potential health risks, including the possibility of transmission to humans, though no concrete proof exists yet. This summary offers insights into the disease’s spread, symptoms, causes, and implications.
Spread Across the United States
Since its first documented case in Colorado during the 1960s, CWD has been reported in multiple states and even internationally. Indiana is the latest to confirm a case, marking its spread to the 33rd state. CWD is most common in regions where white-tailed deer, elk, moose, and reindeer are abundant. In these heavily affected areas, infection rates can exceed 10%, and wildlife agencies urge caution for hunters handling or consuming wild game.
Symptoms and Behavioral Changes in Deer
Infected animals experience gradual neurological decline, leading to symptoms like extreme weight loss, lethargy, drooling, stumbling, and a loss of coordination. Often called “zombie deer disease” due to these behaviors, CWD may take up to two years before signs are visible. During this time, infected animals appear healthy, allowing the disease to spread silently within populations.
Causes of Chronic Wasting Disease
CWD is caused by prions, abnormally folded proteins that damage brain tissue, creating a spongy appearance. These prions multiply by misfolding other proteins, leading to neurological impairments and inevitable death in affected animals. Similar to prion diseases in other species, CWD resembles mad cow disease, which raised public health concerns in the past due to its potential human impact.
Potential Risk to Humans
A recent University of Texas study explored two cases in which hunters died after consuming meat from CWD-infected populations, but the findings do not confirm human transmission. These hunters developed sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, which bears similarities to CWD. Researchers advise caution, noting that further study is essential to understand any public health risks fully. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also recommends avoiding consumption of untested game.
What to Do if You Encounter an Infected Animal
Wildlife officials urge the public to report any suspected cases of CWD to their local wildlife agency. Early detection could help control the spread, especially in new areas. As hunters are the most directly affected, they should handle wild game with care, follow safety guidelines, and have meat tested before consumption to reduce health risks associated with CWD.
Sources:
USA Today – https://www.usatoday.com/story/graphics/2024/04/29/zombie-deer-disease-2024-two-hunters-cwd/73450919007/
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – https://www.cdc.gov/chronic-wasting/animals/index.html
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