A deer-killing disease known as Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) has been confirmed in Northeast Pennsylvania, marking a significant concern for local wildlife. Andrea Korman, a biologist with the Pennsylvania Game Commission, explains that once CWD is present in an area, it cannot be eradicated, likening its persistence to “glitter.” Initial cases emerged from a game farm and a deer shot during hunting season, with local officials now actively testing road-killed deer to map the extent of the disease.
The Game Commission urges hunters to take precautions, such as wearing gloves when handling deer and reporting any sick animals. As CWD spreads, the commission might establish a disease management area with specific regulations to curb its impact. Noting the rapid increase in contamination rates in nearby counties, Korman emphasizes the collaborative role hunters play in monitoring and managing the disease’s effects. Free testing services for deer are available to help hunters assess their game.
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