NEW DELHI: The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) has confirmed four new chronic wasting disease (CWD) cases in Eastern Region 1, bringing the total number of cases in Washington to six. This alarming development underscores the need for increased vigilance and monitoring to contain the spread of this deadly disease.
All four recent cases involved male white-tailed deer where three deer were harvested in Spokane County while the fourth was found near Davis Lake in Pend Oreille County. The WDFW has been proactive in testing salvaged animals for CWD and encourages the public to report any sightings of sick or deceased wildlife.
CWD is a transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE) caused by misfolded proteins known as prions. It affects deer, elk, and moose, leading to severe weight loss, abnormal behavior, and eventual death. The disease spreads through direct animal-to-animal contact or indirectly through contaminated environments such as soil, food, and water.
ALSO READ: Tigress found dead in well in Seoni MP, 4th in six weeks
Although there are no confirmed cases of CWD transmission to domestic animals or humans, health officials advise against consuming meat from infected animals. Precautionary measures include wearing gloves while field dressing and butchering deer and having the meat tested for CWD before consumption.
The WDFW is intensifying its efforts to monitor and control the spread of CWD. This includes increased surveillance, testing, and public awareness campaigns. The department also urges hunters to follow proper disposal procedures for deer carcasses to prevent environmental contamination.
To aid in the fight against CWD, the WDFW is collaborating with local communities, hunters, and wildlife enthusiasts. The department provides resources and information on its website to help the public understand the disease and take necessary precautions.