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Chronic debilitating disease (CWD) has been confirmed in more than half of Saskatchewan's wildlife management areas, the latest case being that of an animal killed south of Melfort.
The most recent case was discovered in a 3½-year surge submitted to the province's CWD voluntary surveillance program.
"Hunters play a key role in identifying the presence and spread of chronic wasting disease in Saskatchewan," Environment Minister Dustin Duncan said in a news release.
Hunters who voluntarily submit their heads can help scientists understand the impact of the disease on wildlife and how to slow down its spread, he said.
In total, 34 CWD cases were identified in the province this year. The disease has been confirmed in 45 of the province's 83 wildlife management areas.
CWD is a fatal disease of the nervous system that affects the deer family, including deer, elk, moose and caribou. It was detected for the first time in 2000.
No human beings have been found to have the disease. However, it is advisable for people not to consume meat from infected animals.
People can find more information about the CWD monitoring program and instructions on how to submit samples of deer heads, elk, moose and caribou for testing purposes.
The tests are free and the results are available in two to eight weeks.
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