CWD Surveillance Programs — How Effective Are They?

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Sampling Strategies Effective CWD surveillance programs employ a combination of sampling methods, including hunter-harvested deer surveys, road-killed deer sampling, and targeted area surveys. For example, in Wisconsin, the Department of Natural Resources uses a stratified sampling design, with different sampling intervals and sampling methods used in areas with high and low CWD prevalence. This approach has allowed the state to detect and monitor CWD in white-tailed deer with a high degree of accuracy.
Testing Protocols CWD surveillance programs rely on robust testing protocols to detect the disease in deer tissues. The most commonly used test is the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for detecting CWD prion protein in deer brain and lymphoid tissues. However, this test has a relatively low sensitivity, and false-negative results can occur. To mitigate this issue, many states use a combination of ELISA and Western blot testing, which has a higher sensitivity and specificity.
Data Analysis and Interpretation CWD surveillance programs also rely on robust data analysis and interpretation to identify areas of high CWD prevalence and to monitor trends over time. This involves using statistical models to analyze the spatial and temporal patterns of CWD occurrence, as well as to identify factors that may be contributing to the spread of the disease. For example, in Colorado, the Department of Parks and Wildlife uses a spatial regression model to analyze the relationship between CWD prevalence and environmental factors such as habitat type and deer density.