CDC Confirms No Link Between Zombie Deer Disease and Hunters’ Deaths

Concerns Dismissed

Recent claims suggesting that chronic wasting disease (CWD), also known as “zombie deer disease,” led to the deaths of two hunters have been proven untrue, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

CDC’s Findings

A report presented by the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio suggested a possible link between CWD-infected venison and the hunters’ neurological disorders and deaths. However, the CDC’s review of the cases dismisses any association between CWD and the fatalities.

Public Health and Further Research

Though the CDC acknowledges the need for further investigation into the potential risks of consuming CWD-infected deer, it emphasizes that there have been no reported cases of CWD transmission to humans to date.

Understanding CWD

Chronic wasting disease in animals, particularly in deer, elk, and moose, results in symptoms like weight loss, lack of coordination, and abnormal behavior. However, the CDC reassures the public that prion diseases, including CWD, have not been proven to spread to humans.

Precautions for Hunters

While the risk of CWD transmission to humans remains low, hunters are advised to take precautions to minimize any potential exposure to the disease:

• Avoid consuming meat from visibly sick animals or animals displaying unusual behavior.
• Use gloves when handling the animal or its meat and avoid contact with the brain or spinal cord tissues.
• Refer to state wildlife and public health guidelines regarding CWD testing recommendations.
• Consider requesting CWD testing for the animal before consuming its meat.
• If the animal tests positive for CWD, refrain from consuming its meat.
• In case of commercial processing, request individual processing to prevent cross-contamination.

Conclusion

Despite concerns raised by the recent case report, the CDC firmly states that there is no evidence to support the transmission of CWD to humans through the consumption of infected deer meat. By following recommended precautions, hunters can continue to enjoy venison without fear of CWD-related health risks.