Slow the spread and know the facts: Chronic wasting disease

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September 11, 2024 - Katie Ockert<ockertka@msu.edu>, Michigan State University Extension

Slow the spread & know the facts: Chronic wasting disease (CWD)

  1. CWD is not known to infect humans, and research is an ongoing priority. 
  2. Public health experts recommend testing deer for CWD before eating it, especially if hunting in a CWD area.
  3. A deer infected with CWD may not appear ill. Deer showing symptoms are at the end stage of the disease.
  4. If you observe a deer that appears sick, report it online at Michigan.gov/EyesInTheField.
  5. To learn more about CWD visit resources like Michigan.gov/CWD and extension.msu.edu/deer.

How can you help slow the spread of chronic wasting disease (CWD)?

  1. Avoid practices like baiting & feeding that increase risk for CWD transmission.
  2. Wear disposable gloves when handling and field dressing deer. 
  3. Avoid handling brain and spinal cord. Remove & submit lymph nodes for CWD testing.
  4. Double bag your deer carcass, parts, & gloves for landfill disposal. 
  5. Before transporting deer carcasses, check movement regulations in your area.

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Tag List
  • chronic wasting disease,
  • deer,
  • deer management,
  • fisheries & wildlife,
  • msu extension,
  • natural resources