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Chronic Wasting Disease Confirmed in Upstate New York Deer Farm

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In a concerning development, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced the confirmation of a case of chronic wasting disease (CWD) at a deer farm in upstate New York. This detection came to light during routine surveillance conducted by the Departments of Agriculture and Markets, specifically within DEC Region 6.

In response, the state has activated its interagency CWD response plan, which focuses on investigating the recent case and increasing surveillance efforts for wild deer in the vicinity. Although there are currently no indications that CWD is present in the local wild deer population, the DEC is taking proactive measures. They will collaborate with local hunters, processors, and taxidermists to enhance surveillance and collect data. Moreover, efforts are underway to monitor roadkill for signs of the disease.

CWD, a progressive neurological disease affecting cervids such as deer, elk, and moose, was first identified in New York back in 2005 in Oneida County, also located in Region 6. Since that time, the DEC has tested over 65,000 wild deer statewide without discovering any further cases. The disease is caused by misfolded prion proteins that can persist in the environment for years, making it a persistent threat to cervid populations.

While there is no evidence to suggest that CWD can infect humans, health officials advise against consuming meat from infected animals and recommend employing safety measures during the field-dressing and butchering processes. As further surveillance and testing proceed, DEC’s ongoing efforts will provide critical insights to manage this emerging public health concern effectively.

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Photo credit www.cidrap.umn.edu

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