Buzz
Chronic wasting disease has now been documented in deer, elk, and moose across 24 states, as reported by the CDC. While the disease isn't new, it's made headlines with its eerie moniker: 'zombie deer.'
What is CWD?
Chronic wasting disease is a prion disorder that affects the brain and nervous system of deer. It's similar to BSE, commonly known as 'mad cow' disease from the 1990s.
The cows weren't mad, and the deer aren't zombies: Over time, the disease leads to symptoms like stumbling, drooling, and strange behavior, such as failing to flee from predators.
In the early stages of the disease, which can span several years, there may be no visible signs. As the disease progresses, the deer may appear gaunt—this is the 'wasting' phase.
Which animals carry the disease, and where can it be found?
Chronic wasting disease has been identified in many species within the deer family, such as whitetail deer, mule deer, elk/wapiti, caribou, and moose.
In the United States, the disease is common in Wyoming and neighboring states, with smaller outbreaks in areas like Wisconsin, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and New Mexico. The CDC provides a list of the 251 counties across 24 states where the disease has been detected.
Are 'zombie' deer a threat to humans?
It's likely that consuming them could lead to infection. No one has contracted Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) from a deer yet, but specialists predict it is only a matter of time.
Prion diseases aren’t caused by bacteria or viruses but by a peculiar form of protein. Unlike most germs, this protein can't be destroyed by cooking. There are rare instances where BSE has been passed from cows to humans, and studies indicate that CWD might transfer from deer to macaque monkeys.
In regions where CWD is a threat, hunters are advised to take precautions, which typically include the following:
Avoid consuming meat from deer or similar animals that appear weak, disoriented, or exhibit signs of illness like stumbling.
Have your deer tested by the local game commission.
Wear gloves while processing deer meat, and refrain from handling the brain or any body parts other than muscle tissue. For more details, check Wyoming’s guidelines for deer meat handling here.
