First case of chronic wasting disease in Washington confirmed in Spokane County

SPOKANE COUNTY, Wash. -- A devasting disease impacting deer has been detected in Spokane County and marks the first case in the state of Washington.

Washington Fish and Wildlife says the first case of chronic wasting disease in Washington was confirmed in an adult female white-tailed deer found dead near Mead.

CWD is a disease that can impact deer, elk or moose and is fatal.

The disease is caused by abnormally shaped proteins that prevent an animal's nervous system from properly functioning.

It spreads through direct contact with infected animals or through a contaminated environment.

Signs of infection in an animal include drooling, stumbling, lack of coordination or loss of fear around people. It can take months or years for symptoms to appear.

There is currently no cure, and the disease can only be detected in the lymph nodes or brain tissues. It can reduce populations if not controlled.

Fish and Wildlife says a Chronic Wasting Disease Management Plan was developed by the department to help mitigate the spread.

CWD has been detected in 34 other states and Washington has been testing cervids since 1995 for it.

There is no evidence the disease is transmittable to humans or pets. The U.S. Centers For Disease Control and Prevention advise against shooting, handling or eating the meat of any animal that looks sick or is acting strange.

Wildlife experts strongly encourage hunters to test their meat for the disease. They also recommend hunters use disposable gloves while field dressing game and thoroughly washing hands and equipment after processing carcasses.

You can find out more about CWD and Washington's mitigation plan HERE .

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