Title: First Positive Case of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) Reported Outside of Riggins, Idaho
The Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) has recently announced the discovery of the first positive case of chronic wasting disease (CWD) in a mule deer near New Meadows. This marks the first known instance of CWD outside of the Riggins area, where the disease was initially detected in Idaho during the fall of 2021.
CWD is a highly contagious and fatal disease that affects deer, elk, and moose populations. Unfortunately, there is currently no cure, reliable live test, or vaccine available to combat this devastating illness. In an effort to gather more information and curb the spread of CWD, IDFG is urging hunters participating in deer and elk hunts between New Meadows and Council to have their animals tested. Hunters can do so by presenting the heads of their harvested animals at any regional fish and game office for sampling.
Recognizing the crucial role that hunters play in helping to monitor the disease, IDFG relies on them for providing samples to better understand the extent and prevalence of CWD. Therefore, their contribution in reporting any potential cases or participating in the testing process is vital.
Symptoms of CWD in deer and elk include excessive drooling, drooping head or ears, tremors, low body weight, and unusual behavior. However, the situation near New Meadows presents new challenges since the animals in this area are migratory, making it more difficult to contain the spread of the disease compared to the previous occurrence in the stationary Riggins area.
In an attempt to gather more data on affected areas, IDFG is urging individuals to report any deer or elk killed on Highway 95 between Riggins and Weiser, as well as any sick-looking deer to regional offices or through the roadkill reporting webpage. By promptly reporting such cases, IDFG can better understand the reach of the disease and take appropriate actions.
Concerned individuals can look forward to a meeting scheduled for November 14-15 in Lewiston, where updates on the CWD situation will be provided. It is expected that during this meeting, wildlife experts and authorities will discuss the latest findings, developments, and efforts being undertaken to combat the spread of CWD.
As CWD continues to pose a significant threat to wildlife populations in Idaho, the IDFG’s call for assistance and vigilance from hunters, as well as public reporting, is key to controlling the spread of this devastating disease. Stay informed and follow guidelines provided by wildlife experts to help protect our local wildlife from this relentless threat.
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