B.C. Hunters Uninformed on Potential CWD Case

Provincial officials are investigating a potential case of chronic wasting disease (CWD) in the Okanagan region of British Columbia after abnormal proteins were detected in a harvested white-tailed deer. This development has left local hunters feeling uninformed and concerned about public safety and testing protocols, especially as mandatory testing is currently limited to the Kootenay region. The disease, which affects cervids, is caused by infectious prions and is fatal to animals like deer, elk, and moose.

Despite the seriousness of CWD for wildlife, there is no direct evidence to suggest it can be transmitted to humans, though similar prion diseases have caused neurological conditions in people. Hunters are encouraged to voluntarily submit samples for free testing, and to report any visibly sick animals. However, some hunters, like David West of the Enderby Fish and Game Club, are advocating for mandatory testing to ensure consistency and address safety concerns effectively.

Experts note that while the disease can spread through bodily fluids and prions persist in the environment, finding evidence of infection early through surveillance is a positive sign of a functioning system. The B.C. government has formed an incident management team to prepare for potential next steps and plans to engage with hunters and partner organizations to disseminate information and guide the ongoing response to this wildlife health concern.