LANSING, Mich. (WLKI)- State agriculture officials have confirmed chronic wasting disease in a farmed deer in Hillsdale County.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development said the deer was identified through the state's chronic wasting disease surveillance program. Officials are investigating to determine whether other farmed cervids may have been exposed.
Chronic wasting disease, often called CWD, is a progressive and fatal neurological disease affecting cervids, including white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk and moose. The disease can spread through direct contact between animals or indirectly through the environment.
Animals carrying the disease may appear healthy for months or years before symptoms become apparent. Later stages can include abnormal behavior, weight loss and physical decline.
The presence of CWD in farmed cervid facilities is not new to Michigan. Cases have previously been identified in Calhoun, Kent, Lake, Mackinac, Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo and Osceola counties.
There have been no reported cases of CWD infection in humans. However, the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that meat from infected animals not be consumed by people or domestic animals.
More information on chronic wasting disease is available through the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.