The Canadian province of British Columbia is taking proactive measures to address the spread of chronic wasting disease (CWD), a concerning development as the illness continues its encroachment across North America.
In response to two confirmed cases at the end of January – one in a mule deer and another in a white-tailed deer, both in the Kootenay district – officials have implemented stringent protocols. These include mandatory testing of any road-killed cervids, such as deer, moose, elk, and caribou, as well as restrictions on the movement and disposal of deer within the affected area.
Chronic wasting disease, characterized by misfolded proteins called prions, wreaks havoc on the brain and nervous system of cervid species, leading to debilitating symptoms like drooling, stumbling, lethargy, and vacant stares. Its ominous nickname, “zombie deer disease,” underscores the severity of its impact. Residents are urged to report any sightings of sick cervids promptly.
While previous cases have been reported in Canada – both in farmed deer populations and wild deer – a recent occurrence in Yellowstone National Park has heightened concerns. Despite ongoing debate among experts regarding the potential transmission of CWD to humans, there is no concrete evidence of such occurrences to date.
Hermann Schätzl, an expert from the University of Calgary, warns of the possibility of CWD transmission to humans based on research involving macaques. These studies demonstrated the potential for transmission through prolonged consumption of infected venison, though no confirmed human cases exist. However, Schätzl emphasizes the importance of remaining vigilant, given the disease’s rapid spread and potential for mutation over time.
Of particular concern is the possibility of human-to-human transmission, reminiscent of scenarios seen with avian influenza or the COVID-19 pandemic. Research on deliberately infected macaques revealed a higher concentration of indicators of the disease in the spinal cord, raising questions about detection methods and potential atypical presentations of the illness.
The extended incubation period of prion diseases adds complexity to the situation, as symptoms may not manifest for many years after exposure. This underscores the urgency of continued research and vigilance in monitoring and addressing the spread of chronic wasting disease.