Zombie deer disease: experts fear potential human transmission

Scientists in Canada are expressing alarm over the rapid spread of a fatal infection known as "zombie deer disease," scientifically termed Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), and are apprehensive about its potential transmission to humans.

The contagious neurological condition poses a significant threat to wildlife, particularly deer populations in the United States and Canada.

Authorities in the Canadian province of British Columbia have responded swiftly to combat the spread of CWD, implementing a strategy following the confirmation of two cases at the end of January.

As part of the preventive measures, officials have mandated the testing of road-killed deer, moose, elk, and caribou.

Chronic Wasting Disease is caused by misfolded proteins called prions, which, after infection, traverse the central nervous system, leaving deposits in brain tissues and organs.

Infected deer exhibit symptoms such as drooling, stumbling, lethargy, and a vacant stare, leading to the colloquial term "zombie deer disease."

While health officials in Canada assert that there is "no direct evidence" of the disease affecting humans, concerns persist.

Hermann Schatzl from the University of Calgary's veterinary school points to previous research on macaques, suggesting the potential transmission of CWD between primates.

"In our experimental models, it's very likely that CWD can infect humans. Has it ever happened before? There is no positive evidence where you can say a human had this prion disease from the consumption of venison. But will it happen in the future? Very likely, yes," cautioned Schatzl.

The chronic wasting disease had previously been reported in farmed deer populations in various Canadian provinces, including Saskatchewan, Alberta, and Quebec, as well as among wild deer in Manitoba. In the United States, the first confirmed case was reported in Yellowstone National Park.

The evolving situation prompts heightened vigilance among scientists and health officials, emphasising the need for comprehensive strategies to contain the spread of "zombie deer disease" and mitigate potential risks to both wildlife and human populations.