What is Zombie deer disease really is, and how much of a threat it poses
A prion disease is now spreading through the US. Here s what you need to know.
Chronic wasting disease (also called Zombie deer disease) is a transmissible brain disease somewhat related to Mad Cow Disease that affects deer, elk, reindeer, sika deer, and mooses. The disease has been detected in the United States, Canada, Norway, Finland, and South Korea.
A deer in Texas. Image credits: Scott Carroll.
Zombie Deer
Since the disease was first reported 50 years ago, sightings have expanded to several areas. According to the CDC, this disease is present in at least 24 states in the United States and has also spread internationally there are likely more cases we don’t know about yet.