Deer in Canada are being eradicated by a "zombie-like illness", posing a threat to hunters
The Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), a prion disease that affects deer, elk, reindeer, sika deer, and moose, is spreading among deer populations in Canada, specifically in Alberta and Saskatchewan. This disease, first discovered in the United States in the 1960s and now found in 26 US states, has no known treatments or vaccines, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
While there is no strong evidence for the event of CWD in people as of now, hunters and consumers of deer or elk meat should take precautions. The CDC advises against hunting, consuming, or handling meat from animals that look ill. When dressing the animal or handling the meat, wearing gloves is recommended, and kitchen blades should not be reused for this purpose. Proper disposal of carcasses is also crucial.
Infected animals with CWD exhibit signs such as excess salivation, loss of control, unusual behavior, excessive urination, and weight loss, which have been described as 'zombie disease.' These animals can transmit the CWD infection through their urine and saliva.
The first case of CWD in Canada was found in an elk farm in Saskatchewan in 1996, and Alberta was the first province to report a case of CWD in wildlife. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency provides signs and symptoms of CWD.
It's important to note that the prion protein that causes CWD remains transmittable when prepared, and plain usage of contaminated meat can potentially lead to infection. The CDC states that there is no strong evidence for people becoming infected with CWD prions as of now.
Health experts urge people to be cautious when handling deer or elk meat, especially if it's from an area where CWD has been reported. By following the CDC's guidelines, one can minimise the risk of contracting this disease.
This article was last updated on 7 April 2022, from NDTV.
