What are the visual signs of chronic wasting disease?
Chronic wasting disease (CWD) has an extended incubation period averaging 18–24 months between infection and the onset of noticeable signs. During this time frame animals look and act normal. The most obvious sign of CWD is progressive weight loss. Numerous behavioral changes also have been reported, including decreased social interaction, loss of awareness, and loss of fear of humans. Diseased animals also may exhibit increased drinking, urination, and excessive salivation.
All CWD symptoms can have other causes and could lead to misdiagnosis of the condition if the animal is not specifically tested for CWD.
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What causes chronic wasting disease?
What is chronic wasting disease?
New Approach May Detect Chronic Wasting Disease Earlier, at Less Cost
A new statistical approach to disease surveillance may improve scientists’ and managers’ ability to detect chronic wasting disease earlier in white-tailed deer by targeting higher-risk animals. This approach can also provide financial and personnel savings for agencies that are required to monitor for wildlife diseases, including the National Park Service, or NPS.
Chronic Wasting Disease in White-Tailed Deer
Chronic wasting disease may have long-term negative effects on white-tailed deer, a highly visible and economically valuable keystone species, according to a new study from the USGS and published in Ecology.
Environmental Persistence of Chronic Wasting Disease Exacerbates Deer Population Declines
Long-term impacts of the chronic wasting disease (CWD) epidemic in North American deer, elk and moose will depend on how the disease persists in the environment, according to a new U.S. Geological Survey study.
Lichens May Aid in Combating Deadly Chronic Wasting Disease in Wildlife
Certain lichens can break down the infectious proteins responsible for chronic wasting disease (CWD), a troubling neurological disease fatal to wild deer and elk and spreading throughout the United States and Canada, according to U.S. Geological Survey research published today in the journal PLoS ONE.
Distribution of Chronic Wasting Disease in North America
Distribution of Chronic Wasting Disease in North America, updated November 25, 2019.
White-tailed Deer
A male white-tailed deer. By USDA photo by Scott Bauer - Image Number: K5437-3.http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/graphics/photos/may01/k5437-3.htm, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=245466
A bull elk with chronic wasting disease
A bull elk with chronic wasting disease at Wind Cave National Park. The emaciated appearance and drooping ears are characteristic of latter stages of infection.
Deer with Chronic Wasting Disease
This deer shows visible signs of chronic wasting disease.