Humans and Zombie deer disease

 

"Zombie deer disease," formally known as chronic wasting disease (CWD), is a concern primarily among wildlife, particularly deer, moose, elk, and reindeer. However, recent cases of humans contracting sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) have raised questions about the potential for CWD to jump the species barrier and affect humans.

Here's a summary of the key points regarding CWD and its potential risks for humans:

1. Nature of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD): CWD is a type of prion disease, a neurodegenerative condition that infects hoofed ruminant mammals like deer. It is caused by misfolded prion proteins, which lead to brain cell damage and bodily dysfunction.

2. Symptoms of CWD: Symptoms in animals include weight loss, excessive drinking and urination, poor balance and coordination, drooping ears, difficulty swallowing, and eventually death. These symptoms have led to the term "zombie deer disease."

3. Risk of Transmission to Humans: While there have been no reported cases of CWD transmission to humans, concerns have been raised, especially after the deaths of two hunters who regularly consumed meat from CWD-infected deer. However, there is currently no definitive evidence linking CWD to human prion diseases like CJD.

4. Research and Surveillance: Scientists are actively researching the potential for CWD transmission to humans. Experimental studies have yielded mixed results, with some suggesting possible transmission to animals closely related to humans. However, further research is needed to confirm these findings.

5. Contingency Plans and Surveillance: Organizations like the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP) are developing contingency plans in case of CWD transmission to humans. Surveillance efforts are also underway to monitor the spread of CWD and its potential impact on human health.

6. Concerns and Limitations: Experts caution that CWD prions could mutate over time, potentially affecting a wider range of hosts, including humans. Climate change may also impact deer populations, potentially influencing the spread of CWD.

Overall, while there is ongoing research and surveillance regarding CWD and its potential risks to humans, conclusive evidence of transmission is still lacking. However, experts emphasize the importance of continued monitoring and research to better understand and mitigate any potential threats posed by CWD.