Defining the Threat: What Is Chronic Wasting Disease?
CWD is a fatal neurological disease... [summary of CWD basics]
CWD Transmission and Spread
CWD Symptoms and Progression
Examining the Parallels Between CWD and Other Prion Diseases
Mad Cow Disease
Kuru and Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease in Humans
Could CWD Make the Leap to Humans?
Assessing the Zoonotic Potential
Ongoing Research and Uncertainty
The Threat of an "Apocalyptic Zombie Virus" in Fiction and Media
Zombie Tropes in Books, TV, and Film
Examining Human Fascination and Fear
...additional sections and full article content...
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Could chronic wasting disease really turn into a zombie apocalypse?
While the idea of a zombie deer disease spreading to humans and causing a zombie apocalypse grabs attention, most experts agree the actual risk is very low. So far, there is no evidence CWD has infected humans despite years of exposure.
What are the symptoms of CWD in deer?
Infected deer display symptoms like weight loss, stumbling, lack of coordination, excessive salivation, loss of bodily functions, and abnormal behavior before inevitably declining and dying.
How does chronic wasting disease spread between deer?
CWD spreads between deer and elk via direct animal-to-animal contact or through prions (misfolded proteins) contaminating the environment via saliva, urine, feces, and carcasses.
Is it safe to eat meat from deer with CWD?
While human transmission has not been recorded, health agencies still recommend against consuming meat from deer that test positive for CWD as a precaution.
What is being done to monitor and control the spread of CWD in deer?
Wildlife agencies test deer, establish disease surveillance zones, implement additional hunting permits in infection hot spots, and advise precautions for hunters to minimize spread.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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