The disease that has made headlines around the world is not a newly emerged disease, it has been seen in animals for many years, and the possibility of it spreading to humans is still a matter of debate.
Chronic wasting disease (CWD) recently made headlines by being dubbed “zombie deer disease.” First discovered on the foothills campus of Colorado State University, the disease affects deer and elk, causing neurological symptoms such as lethargy and loss of coordination. Despite its popular name, the true threat and novelty of the disease may not be as dramatic as headlines suggest, according to The Coloradoan.
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CWD is a prion disease similar to mad cow disease in cattle or Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease in humans. Prions are malformed proteins that damage the central nervous system. This disease is part of a family known as transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) that are often fatal and have degenerative consequences.
The connection between CWD, Colorado State University and Fort Collins began in 1967, when captive deer showed signs of an unknown wasting disease. It was not defined as TSE until 1978. Since then, active monitoring and study of CWD has been carried out in the region.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there is no evidence to date that CWD infects humans. But the CDC also warns against consuming meat from contaminated animals because studies in monkeys indicate a potential risk to humans, although this has not been confirmed.
CWD, which affects large portions of deer and elk herds, has been found throughout Colorado. It is also present in both wild and captive populations in 32 US states and several Canadian provinces.
There is currently no cure or vaccine for CWD. The disease spreads through body fluids and, according to some sources, insects and can also pollute the environment. Wildlife officials are focusing on controlling the spread of the disease, primarily by advising caution when handling potentially infected animals.
Although chronic wasting disease is a significant health problem for wildlife, its impact on humans remains unclear. Ongoing research aims to learn more about the transmission and consequences of the disease. Meanwhile, understanding and awareness of the disease is critical to managing its spread and ensuring the health of wildlife populations and potentially humans.
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Source: Focus
Ashley Fitzgerald is an accomplished journalist in the field of technology. She currently works as a writer at 24 news breaker. With a deep understanding of the latest technology developments, Ashley’s writing provides readers with insightful analysis and unique perspectives on the industry.