Medical Dialogues

WHAT IS ZOMBIE DEER DISEASE: KNOW ALL ABOUT IT

WHAT IS ZOMBIE DEER DISEASE?
Zombie Deer Disease, or Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), is a fatal neurological illness affecting deer, elk, and moose. It's caused by abnormal prion proteins that damage the brain and nervous system. Infected animals exhibit symptoms like weight loss, stumbling, a lack of coordination, drooling, and aggression.
The disease is highly contagious among cervids and can spread through direct contact or contaminated environments. While there's no direct evidence of transmission to humans, concerns exist. Management includes surveillance, testing, movement restrictions, and research for treatments or vaccines.
CAUSE OF ZOMBIE DEER DISEASE
Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), or "Zombie Deer Disease," is caused by abnormal prion proteins that damage the brain and nervous system of infected animals.
SYMPTOMS OF ZOMBIE DEER DISEASE
Infected animals may experience drastic weight loss (wasting), stumbling, lack of coordination, drooling, excessive thirst or urination, and aggression.
SPREAD
Deer, elk, and moose can contract CWD from one another directly or by interaction with prions-contaminated surroundings.
RISK TO HUMANS
Although there isn't any concrete proof that CWD can infect people, some experts are worried about the possibility and advise against eating animals that have the disease.
HOW TO STAY SAFE?
Wear gloves when handling corpses to prevent direct contact with ill or dead animals, Avoid eating meat from animals that have been confirmed to have CWD.
Avoid places that are frequented by wildlife and dispose of animal remains appropriately, Respect the laws governing the taking, processing, and transportation of deer, elk, and other related species.
Keep yourself updated about the presence of CWD in your area and heed the advice of wildlife officials, Encourage studies and observational efforts to gain a better understanding and management of the illness.