Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is causing a rash of so-called zombie deer throughout the US. Often scrawny and disheveled, these animals are becoming more common.
But what does this mean for you?
Today, we’re delving into the microscopic world of prions to answer that question.
Let’s jump in!
Reports of Zombie Deer Grow Throughout the US
Hunters nationwide are increasingly concerned about a neurological disorder plaguing deer, elk, moose, and other cervids. Similar to creatures from a zombie movie, infected animals appear emaciated, often drooling and staggering. They may seem disoriented or confused.
But this condition isn’t a work of fiction. Instead, it’s a genuine illness that’s spreading across deer populations.
Currently, animals in 31 states have tested positive for chronic wasting disease. In parts of Wisconsin, half of those tested were confirmed to have it. And deer populations in Wyoming dropped by 10% due to the illness.
Authorities first found the disease in Colorado in 1967. One 20-year study conducted in the state showed that about 45% of deer deaths were due to CWD.
And it isn’t just a problem in the US. Researchers have found it in Canada, Norway, and South Korea.
What is Chronic Wasting Disease?
Chronic wasting disease is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by prions, which are naturally occurring proteins. When these prions become misfolded, an animal’s body can’t process them as usual. In turn, they multiply and affect otherwise healthy proteins.
Over time, a plaque forms over the creature’s brain and creates holes in its organs. Eventually, its nervous system shuts down completely, making deer act zombie-like before passing away.
CWD is always fatal. It might take an entire year for an animal to become symptomatic and another to succumb to the disease. Even asymptomatic cases end in death. Because the process is so slow, most infected deer die from predators, cars, or other accidents before people can tell they’re affected.
Additionally, CWD predisposes them to other health problems, like pneumonia.
This disease can spread from animal to animal through bodily fluids like saliva, feces, and urine. Interestingly, while bovines appear unaffected by this illness, it’s similar to the mad cow plague of the 1990s.
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Is There a Cure for the Zombie Deer Disease?
Unfortunately, there’s no cure or vaccine for CWD. However, there’s a lot of ongoing research on the subject. In fact, more than 100 recent projects aim to understand more about the illness and how to control it.
Both CWD and mad cow disease are types of spongiform encephalopathy. We know that these prion malformations are incurable. When mad cow wreaked havoc across the US, researchers determined the only solution was culling affected populations.
Because this condition has a prolonged incubation and shedding period, we’re unlikely to eradicate it entirely. Prions can remain active in the soil even years after an outbreak. Additionally, the movement of both captive and wild deer has further slowed progress.
Most of us are more likely to have problems with the 10 Most Dangerous Bugs in the USA.
Can the Zombie Deer Disease Affect Humans?
Unlike mad cow disease, there’s no evidence CWD can spread to humans. All the same, officials caution hunters to avoid eating meat that could be contaminated. After all, researchers believe if a jump to humans occurs, it’ll probably be due to the consumption of infected animals.
However, scientists have observed infections in other primates who ate contaminated meat. Some even contracted it from asymptomatic sources.
But even if we can’t catch it ourselves, the presence of zombie deer disease still affects us.
Hunters are especially concerned about the illness. As it spreads through cervids, populations are taking a hit. While researchers and outdoor enthusiasts raise the alarm, others say it’s not a big deal.
Musician Ted Nugent called the uproar “an absolute scam.” But wildlife officials disagree, asserting that continued transmission may decimate deer populations over time.
Any way you slice it, we won’t be eating any questionable venison for the foreseeable future.
How to Combat Chronic Wasting Disease
For now, the best way to fight zombie deer disease is to prevent its spread. That means hunters should avoid shooting any cervids that look malnourished or exhibit odd behaviors. Since many animals don’t show symptoms, you should treat any deer as though it’s infected.
If you field dress your kill, wear latex or rubber gloves. Avoid handling the brain, spine, or other organs where prions concentrate. Be sure you don’t use kitchen knives during the process, as that could spread the prions in your home. Clean up with equal parts bleach and water, and soak your knives in the same solution.
When you have your deer processed by a pro, ask if they can test it for CWD. Proper testing may require lymph tissue, but it’s the only way to know what you’re eating is safe. Your nearest public health center or state wildlife agency can tell you if your area has confirmed cases.
Depending on your processor, they may be able to handle your deer separately from others.
Follow all local ordinances on luring deer, and never bait them onto your property. Cervid movement is a primary cause of the CWD outbreak, so we want to limit their migration.
Finally, although it goes without saying, never eat meat from an animal you suspect might have the zombie deer disease. While humans haven’t contracted it, you don’t want to press your luck.
For when you know you have disease-free meat: The Easy Venison Cookbook – 60 Simple Recipes for Deer, Elk, and Moose
Don’t Panic Over These Zombies
CWD is impacting cervid populations on a significant level. Unfortunately, there’s no cure, and if mad cow disease is any indication, there may never be one.
However, the good news is that it isn’t currently a human health threat. If you’re a hunter, take precautions and watch for unhealthy animals. Otherwise, have no fear and keep enjoying the great outdoors!
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