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Helping to combat chronic wasting disease

Fact Sheet 2005-3076
By:
https://doi.org/10.3133/fs20053076

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Abstract

Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is a disease of the nervous system that results in distinctive brain lesions. CWD affects elk, white-tailed deer, and mule deer, but has not been documented in livestock or humans. The origins of the disease, as well as the modes of transmission, remain unknown. Infected deer and elk appear robust and healthy in the early stages of CWD; clinical signs might not show for years. Mortality typically occurs within months after the appearance of clinical signs. The route of transmission is unknown; likely routes include direct transmission between infected and noninfected animals and infected animals contaminating local environments.

Suggested Citation

Water Resources Division, U.S. Geological Survey, 2003, Helping to combat chronic wasting disease: U.S. Geological Survey Fact Sheet 2005-3076, 2 p., https://doi.org/10.3133/fs20053076.

ISSN: 2327-6932 (online)

Table of Contents

  • New Initiatives and Future Direction
  • National Planning and Surveillance Workshop
  • Department of the Interior and State Activities
  • Information Products
  • New Diagnostic Capabilities
  • Science and Health Team
Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Helping to combat chronic wasting disease
Series title Fact Sheet
Series number 2005-3076
DOI 10.3133/fs20053076
Year Published 2003
Language English
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Publisher location Reston, VA
Contributing office(s) National Wildlife Health Center
Description 2 p.
Online Only (Y/N) Y
Additional publication details