Chronic Wasting Disease Found In Another Michigan County

Michigan's Genesee County just got its first confirmed case of chronic wasting disease (CWD) in wild deer. A doe had tested positive, after acting out of sorts in Gaines Township, according to the Michigan DNR.

The sample was later sent to MSU's vet lab, and will also go to the U.S. lab in Iowa for a final verification.

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This makes Genesee the 16th county in Michigan where CWD has now been been found in the wildlife. The DNR has already tested about 300 deer in Genesee back in 2022, and they've come back clean.

What Is Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD)

CWD is a fatal neurological disease that affects deer, elk and moose. It has a very slow progression to it, and once deer are infected, there is no cure or chance of survival. The disease spreads gradually, and sometimes shows up in new areas at low levels, so it can be tricky to catch.

CWD in Michigan: County Spread

Michigan first confirmed CWD in wild deer back in 2015, and since then, testing has been ramped up. Counties like Mecosta, Jackson, Washtenaw and others have all tested positive for CWD in recent years. There have also been a few cases of CWD in deer faming facilities in recent years as well.

Risks, Hunters, and Safety Recommendations

No human case has ever been confirmed, but the CDC does advise against eating meet from infected animals, just as a precaution. Hunters should take extra care when field dressing dear, by wearing gloves, minimizing contact with brain and spinal tissues, as well as dispose of carcasses properly.