what is wasting disease

2 min read 13-03-2025

Wasting disease, more accurately known as Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), is a fatal, transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE) affecting deer, elk, and moose. It's a prion disease, meaning it's caused by misfolded proteins that damage the brain and nervous system. Understanding CWD is crucial for wildlife management and public health.

What Causes Chronic Wasting Disease?

CWD is caused by prions, abnormally shaped proteins that accumulate in the brain and other tissues. These misfolded prions trigger a chain reaction, causing more proteins to misfold. This leads to the formation of holes in the brain, giving it a sponge-like appearance—hence the term "spongiform encephalopathy."

The exact way CWD spreads isn't fully understood. However, it's known to be transmitted through:

Direct contact: Animals can contract CWD through contact with bodily fluids (saliva, urine, feces) from infected animals.
Indirect contact: CWD can also spread indirectly through contaminated environments, such as soil or water. Infected prions can persist in the environment for a long time.
Genetic predisposition: Some deer and elk populations may be genetically more susceptible to CWD.

Symptoms of Chronic Wasting Disease

CWD progresses slowly, with symptoms often taking months or even years to become noticeable. These symptoms can include:

Weight loss: This is the most prominent symptom, hence the name "wasting disease."
Behavioral changes: Affected animals might exhibit unusual behavior, such as excessive drooling, stumbling, or aggression.
Lack of coordination: Deer and elk with CWD may struggle with coordination and motor skills.
Excessive thirst and urination: Dehydration is a common symptom.
Emaciation: Animals will become severely underweight and weakened.

Is Chronic Wasting Disease Dangerous to Humans?

While there's no confirmed case of human transmission of CWD, the potential risk remains a concern. Studies show that prions from CWD can infect primates under experimental conditions. This highlights the need for caution and continued research. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health organizations recommend avoiding contact with potentially infected animals and properly handling venison from areas where CWD is prevalent.

How is Chronic Wasting Disease Diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves testing samples of lymph nodes, brain, or other tissues. Tests commonly used include:

ELISA (Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay): This is a relatively quick and inexpensive screening test.
Western blot: This is a more confirmatory test that can distinguish CWD from other similar diseases.
Immunohistochemistry: This technique allows for visualization of prion proteins in tissues.

Management and Prevention of Chronic Wasting Disease

Managing CWD is challenging. Strategies include:

Surveillance and monitoring: Regular testing of harvested animals to track the spread of the disease.
Culling infected animals: Removing infected animals from the population to reduce transmission.
Restricting movement of animals: Regulations can limit the movement of deer and elk to prevent the spread of CWD.
Environmental management: Practices that minimize the risk of environmental contamination.

Conclusion: The Ongoing Threat of Wasting Disease

Chronic Wasting Disease is a serious threat to deer, elk, and moose populations. While the risk to humans remains under investigation, cautious handling of wildlife and venison is recommended. Continued research, surveillance, and effective management strategies are crucial to control the spread of CWD and mitigate its impact on wildlife and potentially human health. Staying informed about CWD in your area is a crucial step in responsible wildlife management and conservation.