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Chronic Wasting Disease

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Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is a deadly, neurological illness that affects deer, elk,

moose, reindeer, and muntjac. It may also affect some other members of the

Cervidae family.

Unlike most infectious diseases, CWD isn't caused by bacteria or a virus, but rather

by misfolded natural proteins called prions. When these proteins fold incorrectly,
they kill brain cells. Infected animals appear healthy for months or years. Then in the

final stages of disease, they become debilitated and ultimately die. How fast CWD

progresses depends on the species and the animal's genetics.

What To Look For

Other diseases may present in a similar manner, so post-mortem testing is required

to verify CWD. Here's what to look for:

Weight loss

Frequent urination

Poor coordination

Drooping ears

Drooling

Difficulty swallowing

Aspiration pneumonia

How To Prevent This Disease

CWD is a disease of the central nervous system caused by a prion that often

presents as wasting. You can reduce the risk of CWD spreading to and infecting a

farmed cervid herd by maintaining strict biosecurity. If you are just starting to raise

farmed cervids consider raising a species that is not known to be susceptible to

CWD. For white-tailed deer herds, you can reduce CWD spread by breeding for less

susceptible animals.

We also encourage producers to enroll in the Chronic Wasting Disease Herd

Certification Program. The goal of the program is to provide a consistent, national

approach to control the incidence of CWD in farmed cervids and prevent the

interstate spread of CWD. 

Report Signs of Animal Disease
Producers or owners who suspect an animal disease should contact their

veterinarian to evaluate the animal or herd. Find an accredited veterinarian.

Animal health professionals (veterinarians; diagnostic laboratories; public health,

zoo, or wildlife personnel; and others) report diagnosed or suspected cases of

nationally listed reportable animal diseases to APHIS District Offices and to the State

animal health official as applicable under State reporting regulations. 

Controlling Chronic Wasting Disease

Information for Cooperators and Veterinarians

Testing for CWD

Collection Card (184.18 KB): This offers a pictorial guide for proper post-mortem

sample collection for CWD.

APHIS-Approved Testing Laboratories: Use this list to locate labs in your area

that can conduct testing to verify CWD. Contact the laboratory before

submitting samples to ensure they have funding available to conduct the test.

Help Minimize the Spread of CWD

You can reduce the risk of CWD spreading to and infecting a farmed cervid herd by

maintaining strict biosecurity and raising cervid species that are resistant or less

susceptible to CWD. For white-tailed deer herds, you can reduce CWD spread by

breeding for less susceptible animals.

Wildlife Disease Surveillance and Research

APHIS Wildlife Services conducts surveillance and research on dozens of wildlife

diseases, including chronic wasting disease. For more information, visit our National

Wildlife Disease Program and National Wildlife Research Center.

Funding Opportunities

APHIS provides millions of dollars each year to State and Tribal governments,

universities, and others to control CWD in wild and farmed cervids. Learn more at

Chronic Wasting Disease Management and Response Funding Opportunities.