The spread of chronic wasting disease (CWD), also known as “zombie deer” disease, among deer in Yellowstone National Park in the United States is worrying scientists who fear that the disease could spread to humans, particularly to because of hunting.
CWD is a highly contagious and fatal prion disease that affects the brain and nervous system of deer.
Seen in deer, elk, reindeer and moose in parts of North America, Canada, Norway and South Korea, it can cause weight loss, movement disorders, listlessness and neurological symptoms, according to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The first case of the disease was recorded last month, when the carcass of a CWD-positive deer was found in the park, “The Guardian” recalled.
Although no humans have been infected so far, scientists are concerned about a possible spread to humans, as was the case in the United Kingdom with mad cow disease.
Park officials said that since the mid-1980s, the disease has spread throughout Wyoming and can now be found in most states across the country.
Between 10 and 15% of the deer population in the Cody region that migrate to the south of the park in the summer could also be infected.
With hunting season underway, the CDC recommends hunters test meat before eating it.