Real Consequences of Ignoring CWD Regulations — What Are They?

Spreading the Disease

Chronic wasting disease (CWD) can spread rapidly if not managed properly. Hunters who ignore regulations by transporting deer or elk with CWD across state or national boundaries can inadvertently introduce the disease to new areas. In the United States, for example, CWD has been detected in over 30 states, with new cases reported regularly. The risk of spreading CWD is further exacerbated by the fact that the disease can take up to 2 years to develop in a deer, making it difficult to detect.

Economic Consequences

The economic impact of CWD can be severe for hunters and farmers. In Wisconsin, for example, CWD has led to a significant decline in the state’s deer population, resulting in a loss of revenue for hunters and farmers. According to a study by the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the economic impact of CWD in Wisconsin is estimated to be around $100 million annually. Furthermore, the cost of testing and management for CWD can also be substantial, with some states spending millions of dollars each year to monitor and contain the disease.

Human Health Risks

While the risk of CWD transmission to humans is still considered low, the World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that it is possible for people to contract CWD through handling infected deer or elk. In some cases, CWD can cause a similar condition in humans known as variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD), which is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder. To minimize the risk of CWD transmission to humans, hunters and farmers are advised to follow proper handling and disposal procedures for deer and elk, including wearing protective clothing and gloves, and avoiding the consumption of high-risk tissues such as brain and spinal cord.