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MECOSTA COUNTY, MI – Deer on two different farms are suffering from a chronic wasting disease.
A deer on a farm in Mecosta County and a deer on a farm in Montcalm County tested positive when the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development performed routine tests, according to a press release from MDARD . The deer were 2 and 4 years old.
Chronic wasting disease is a fatal neurological disease that is spread from animal to animal and through the environment, the statement said. An infected deer may appear normal for months or years before beginning to exhibit abnormal behavior, gradual weight loss, and physical debilitation.
Eight cases of chronic wasting disease have been discovered in deer farms since 2008, including the two new cases, the statement said.
“Since chronic wasting disease can have a significant impact on all Michigan deer, it is vitally important to detect the disease as early as possible,” state veterinarian Nora Wineland said in the statement. “Early detection allows MDARD and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to work collaboratively with farmers and hunters to stem the spread and manage this serious disease. “
There is an investigation to see if the disease has spread to other deer.
No cases have been reported in humans, the statement said. However, people and animals should avoid eating infected meat.
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