Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD)

CWD is a fatal, neurological illness occurring in the North American deer family that causes chronic weight loss, leading to death. It is known to affect white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk and moose. CWD is contagious and can be transmitted within both wild and farmed populations.

How is CWD spread?

CWD is spread between animals via body fluids like feces, salvia, and/or blood, through direct contact or indirectly through environmental contamination of soil, food, or water. The incubation period for CWD in whitetail deer is 16-22 months.

CWD Testing?

Currently, there are no known treatments or vaccines available. The only approved way to find CWD is through the testing of dead animals. There are multiple live tests available; however, none have yet been approved by USDA for routine surveillance.

Who is at Risk?

CWD is not known to infect livestock or humans. Since its discovery in 1967, CWD has spread geographically and increased in prevalence locally. It has been detected in at least 23 states, two Canadian provinces, and South Korea.

More Information

The Truth About CWD

Resources

The Truth About CWD

Subject Matter Experts

Dr. James Kroll - DrDeer.com
Dr. Greg Stewart - CWD Lecture
Keith Warren - High Road Hunting

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