A concerning illness known as zombie deer disease, scientifically referred to as chronic wasting disease (CWD), has been raising alarm among scientists. Although it primarily affects animals such as deer, elk, moose, and reindeer, there is growing concern about potential human infections.
Similar to mad cow disease, CWD is caused by prions, which are aberrant proteins that can spread in the bloodstream and affect the brain, leading to symptoms like weight loss, stumbling, listlessness, fatigue, drooling, and other neurological problems. However, despite the alarming symptoms, there is currently no evidence to suggest that CWD has crossed over into humans.
Mad cow disease, also caused by prions, resulted in the slaughtering of 4 million cattle and claimed the lives of 200 individuals. It is important to note that prion diseases are distinct from viral, bacterial, fungal, or spore-based illnesses. The prion protein can spread and accumulate in the brain, causing mental health issues and fatigue.
A recent case involving a deer part of a tracking project brought attention to the severity of CWD. The deer, which unexpectedly died, was discovered to have succumbed to prion disease. This event underscores the need to monitor and study the spread of CWD.
While the transmission of CWD among deer and similar animals is not entirely understood, previous cases of prion diseases, like mad cow disease, were linked to the consumption of infected meat. Currently, there is no cause for panic among the general population. It is essential to differentiate between vague, nonspecific symptoms and the specific symptoms associated with CWD. Often, people over-associate when they hear of a new disease.
Furthermore, the resilience of prions poses a challenge. Prions are merely protein molecules and are not affected by usual measures to disinfect or eradicate pathogens. Therefore, standard methods such as alcohol, radiation, freezing, or incineration do not effectively eliminate prions, making prion diseases like CWD worrisome.
Despite these concerns, there is no evidence suggesting the transmission of CWD to humans at this point. Therefore, individuals can continue to consume deer meat without worrying about CWD contamination.
Scientists and health experts will closely monitor the situation, especially in regions where CWD is prevalent, like Cody, Wyoming, where approximately 10% of the deer and elk population may have the disease. It is important to remember that the majority of cases of CWD are not fatal, further alleviating potential concerns.
Although the name 'zombie deer disease' may sound disturbing, it is crucial to stay informed and avoid unnecessary panic. By understanding the nature of prion diseases like CWD and monitoring their spread, researchers remain committed to safeguarding public health and mitigating risks associated with these illnesses.
