Macon, GA |

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) has sparked concerns among livestock producers and hunters alike. To address these issues, Dr. Tina Johannsen, Game Management Assistant Chief with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR), recently joined a discussion to clarify the risks and management strategies related to CWD.

Can Livestock Contract CWD?

For livestock owners worried about potential transmission from deer to their animals, Dr. Johannsen provided a reassuring answer.

“No,” she stated simply. “The good news is that CWD has been present on the landscape for over 50 years in the western U.S. and more than 20 years in the east, with no evidence that it infects anything other than deer, elk, and moose.”

Additionally, scavengers and livestock, including cattle, horses, goats, and sheep, do not appear to be affected. Even feral pigs, which may ingest infected material, do not seem to contribute to the disease’s spread.

What Are the Signs of CWD in Deer?

Identifying CWD in deer can be challenging. The disease has an incubation period of 18 to 30 months, during which infected deer appear healthy. It’s only in the final weeks before death that symptoms become evident.

“CWD is a neurological disease that causes brain damage and affects the central nervous system,” explained Dr. Johannsen. “In the late stages, deer exhibit signs such as weight loss, droopy ears, poor coat condition, and abnormal behavior. They may appear disoriented or fail to flee when approached.”

However, these symptoms are not unique to CWD. Other diseases like Blue Tongue and epizootic hemorrhagic disease, as well as brain abscesses, can produce similar effects, complicating diagnosis.

Advice for Hunters in CWD Management Areas

With CWD detected in Georgia, the DNR has implemented monitoring and management efforts in affected regions, particularly Berrien and Lanier counties. Hunters in these areas are encouraged to participate in voluntary testing programs.

“For hunting season, we’ll set up drop-off stations with freezers where hunters can leave deer heads for testing,” Dr. Johannsen explained. “We’ll notify them as soon as results are available.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends against consuming CWD-positive deer, though the final decision is up to the hunter. “The CDC is very cautious when it comes to human health, so if a deer is sick, we advise against eating it,” she added.

Participation in testing helps both individual hunters and the broader management effort, as officials aim to contain CWD within the smallest possible area for as long as possible.

Staying Informed and Vigilant

As CWD remains a pressing issue, livestock producers and hunters should stay informed through reliable sources such as state wildlife agencies and the CDC. The Georgia DNR continues to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.

For more information on CWD management and testing locations, visit the Georgia DNR website or contact local wildlife authorities.