How is CWD spread

Increasing awareness and presence in populations of game animals such as deer, moose, elk and reindeer, chronic wasting disease, or CWD is on the minds of outdoorsmen throughout the country. These animals are infected by “prions” which are abnormal, pathogenic protein agents that are transmissible. Here is Dr. Nicole Walrath, a state wildlife veterinarian.

Prion diseases are infectious, untreatable and fatal. All Cervids or members of the d eer family are susceptible as the prion is not a virus or bacteria. Medicines such as antibiotics, antivirals or vaccines are not options to treat or prevent prion infections. Animals cannot build an immunity to prions. Prions are extremely difficult to destroy and remain in the environment for many years. Once a deer, elk or moose is infected, more and more c.w.d. Prions accumulate within their bodies. Prions can be spread from animal to animal several ways. For example, grooming, marking, mating and pregnancy. CWD Prions are also spread into the environment by saliva, urine, scat and carcasses. Once CWD Is established in an area, more and more animals become infected and more habitat will be contaminated with c.w.d. Prions. It may take years to see population level effects, and once the effects are detectable, the prevalence in the population and the environment is great enough that reversing the population decline becomes extremely difficult, if not impossible. Speaker1: Contact your local fish and Game department to see how you can help.