Assessing the human risk of 'zombie deer disease'
Scientists delve into the complexities of chronic wasting disease and its transmission among wildlife, raising concerns about future health implications.
Jennifer Chesak reports for the BBC.
In short:
- Chronic wasting disease (CWD), also known as 'zombie deer disease', is spreading among wildlife, raising concerns about potential human transmission.
- CWD is a prion disease affecting deer, elk, and moose, with symptoms like weight loss and poor coordination.
- While no human cases have been reported, the possibility of transmission is being closely monitored, drawing parallels to mad cow disease.
Key quote:
"As of yet, there has been no transmission from deer or elk to humans. However, given the nature of prions, CDC and other agencies have supported all efforts to keep any prion disease out of the food chain."
— Jennifer Mullinax, associate professor of wildlife ecology and management at the University of Maryland
Why this matters:
The potential for CWD to affect humans is a significant concern, especially given the precedent set by other animal-to-human prion diseases. Understanding and monitoring this disease is important for public health and wildlife management.
Related: How migratory birds are moving Lyme disease to new places and peoples.
