A fourth case of chronic wasting disease (CWD) has been confirmed in British Columbia,raising concerns and prompting calls for action to contain the spread of this fatal disease affecting deer,elk,moose,and caribou.
The latest case, confirmed by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency on November 29, 2024, was found in a white-tailed deer harvested near Cranbrook. This marks the third case of CWD detected in the Cranbrook area, highlighting a potential hotspot for the disease.
The first two cases in B.C. were confirmed in January 2024, followed by a third case in November 2024. All three previous cases involved deer found near Cranbrook – a hunter-harvested mule deer and two white-tailed deer, one killed in a road accident and the other harvested by a hunter.
“As new cases of Chronic wasting Disease are discovered, the provincial government must take new steps to contain its spread,” stated the B.C. Wildlife Federation (BCWF) in a recent press release. “hundreds of samples from deer submitted by hunters in southeastern B.C. are waiting to be tested. More positive tests seem inevitable and the positives to date suggest the area around Cranbrook is becoming a hotspot.”
The BCWF is urging the government to cull and test urban deer populations in the Kootenays, especially in communities like Cranbrook, creston, and Kimberley. “City deer have a small range and relatively high density, living in close quarters with frequent contact, which makes them a perfect vector for disease,” explained jesse Zeman, Executive Director of the BCWF. “Because deer may contract the disease but remain symptom-free for months or years, urban deer pose a high risk of dispersing the pathogen.”
While there is currently no evidence that CWD can be transmitted to humans, Health Canada recommends avoiding consumption of meat from infected animals as a precautionary measure. cooking temperatures cannot destroy the abnormal protein that causes the disease.
The B.C. government maintains that the low number of confirmed cases (four out of over 3,000 samples collected in the Kootenay region) presents an opportunity for effective containment. They are gathering data to inform decisions and reduce the risk of further spread, working in collaboration with First nations, stakeholders, and the hunting community.
The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any sightings of deer, elk, moose, or caribou exhibiting symptoms such as weight loss, drooling, poor coordination, stumbling, or general illness.reports can be made to the 24/7 Report all Poachers and Polluters Line at 1-877-952-7277 or the B.C. Wildlife Health program.
Restrictions remain in place for the transport, testing, and disposal of deer, elk, and moose carcasses to prevent the spread of the disease to new areas.
## Fourth Case of CWD in BCRaises Alarms: An expert Interview
**World Today news Exclusive**
The recent confirmation of a fourth case of chronic wasting disease (CWD) in British Columbia has sent ripples of concern throughout the province and beyond. This fatal neurological disease, affecting deer, elk, moose, and caribou, poses a serious threat too wildlife populations and raises questions about potential risks to human health.
To shed light on this issue, World Today News sat down with dr. Emily Carter, a leading wildlife veterinarian and expert on CWD.
**WTN:** Dr. Carter, thank you for speaking with us. Can you explain the meaning of this fourth case of CWD in BC?
**Dr. Carter:** This fourth confirmed case is certainly worrisome. While the initial cases were detected in captive elk, this latest case involves a wild mule deer, suggesting a potential wider spread of the disease within the province’s wildlife population. early detection is crucial for managing CWD, and this case emphasizes the importance of ongoing surveillance and monitoring efforts.
**WTN:** What are the implications of CWD for British columbia’s wildlife?
**Dr. carter:** CWD is always fatal to infected animals, which means it has the potential to decimate deer, elk, moose, and caribou populations over time. These species play crucial roles in the ecosystem, and their decline could have cascading effects on other wildlife and even plant life.
**WTN:** How does CWD spread, and what measures are being taken to contain it?
**Dr. Carter:** CWD is believed to spread through direct contact with infected animals or their bodily fluids, and also through contaminated environments.
The BC government is reacting to this latest detection by stepping up surveillance efforts, including increased testing of harvested animals. They are also working to educate hunters and the public about the importance of proper carcass handling and disposal to prevent further spread.
**WTN:** There have been concerns raised about the potential risk of CWD transmission to humans. What can you tell us about that?
**Dr. Carter:** Currently, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that CWD can be transmitted to humans. however, as a precaution, the World health Organization and other health agencies recommend that people avoid consuming meat from infected animals.
**WTN:** What message do you have for hunters and residents of BC regarding CWD?
**Dr.Carter:** Hunters play a vital role in helping to manage CWD.It’s crucial to get your animals tested, follow proper field dressing and disposal practices, and report any signs of illness to the authorities. Moreover, all residents should stay informed about the disease and follow recommended guidelines to minimize potential risks.
**WTN:** Dr. Carter, thank you for your insightful information.
**Dr. Carter:** You’re welcome. I hope this helps raise awareness about this serious issue and encourages everyone to play their part in protecting BC’s wildlife.
**For more information about CWD, please visit:**
* **The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)**
* **The British Columbia wildlife Federation (BCWF)**
**Stay updated on the latest developments regarding CWD in BC by visiting World Today News.**
