"Rising Threat: 'Zombie Deer' Disease Poses Risks to Wildlife and Potential Human Spread"

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is cautioning deer hunters as Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) spreads across more than 16 counties in Iowa. The neurological disease, which affects deer, elk, and caribou, is transmitted through bodily fluids and has a long asymptomatic incubation period, making it difficult to manage. While there is no evidence of CWD being transferable to humans, hunters are advised to make informed consumption decisions due to its similarity to Mad Cow Disease. The DNR offers a testing service for hunters to check their game for the disease, which currently has no treatment or vaccine.