Florida's Deer Crisis: A Closer Look at Chronic Wasting Disease

Florida is facing a serious issue with Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), a deadly condition affecting deer. This disease, which has a 100% fatality rate in deer, was recently found in Holmes County, near the Georgia border. This is the second case detected in Florida this year, with the first one reported by neighboring Georgia. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is taking this matter seriously. They have a plan in place to manage and contain the disease. The recent case involved a young female deer that was hit by a vehicle, similar to the first case detected in 2023. Despite the proximity of the two cases, the management and surveillance zones remain unchanged. So far, Florida has tested over 2, 400 deer, with only two testing positive for CWD. However, 90 more tests are still pending. Experts advise against consuming meat from affected animals due to potential risks, although CWD is not known to affect humans. It's important to note that CWD is different from the harmless warts sometimes seen on deer, known as cutaneous fibromas. The term \"zombie deer\" has been used to describe deer with CWD due to their symptoms, which include weight loss, poor coordination, and a vacant stare. This disease has gained attention on social media, with many users expressing concern and curiosity. Some even joke about the safety of eating \"zombie deer\" compared to store-bought food. At the federal level, Congress has allocated $35 million annually for CWD research and management. This funding aims to improve detection, prevention, and understanding of the disease's spread. Despite the concerns, it's crucial to rely on accurate information and expert advice regarding CWD and its impact on wildlife and human health.