“Zombie deer disease,” also known as Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), is a prion disease that affects deer, elk, reindeer, sika deer, and moose. It was first identified in captive deer in a Colorado research facility in the late 1960s, and in wild deer in 1981. The term “zombie” is used to describe the symptoms of the disease, which include drooling, lethargy, stumbling, and a blank stare.
Recently, there has been an alarming increase in the disease’s prevalence, particularly in Yellowstone, where scientists have raised concerns about its potential to jump the species barrier to humans. A deer carcass in Yellowstone National Park tested positive for the disease last month.
Scientists are warning that CWD is a “slow-moving disaster” for humans with “huge ecological implications”. Despite these concerns, there is currently no evidence that CWD can infect humans. However, research is ongoing, and the situation is being closely monitored due to the disease’s potential impact on wildlife and human health.
If you live in an area where CWD has been detected, it’s recommended to avoid contact with sick or dead animals and to report any sightings to local wildlife authorities. Hunters are also advised to have their game tested for CWD before consuming it.
The situation continues to develop, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
