The Province of British Columbia has responded to the first cases of chronic wasting disease in the region, as two deer samples from the Kootenay Region have been found to be affected. Chronic wasting disease is a fatal infectious disease that impacts species in the cervid family, including deer, elk, moose, and caribou.
While there is no direct evidence of transmission to humans and no reported cases of the disease affecting humans, Health Canada and the World Health Organization advise against consuming meat or other parts of an animal infected with chronic wasting disease to mitigate potential risks.
Individuals are urged to report any sightings of deer, elk, moose, or caribou displaying symptoms such as weight loss, drooling, poor coordination, stumbling, or unexplained sickness to the 24/7 Report All Poachers and Polluters Line (1 877 952-7277) or the B.C. Wildlife Health Program.
The two cases were identified south of Cranbrook, with the first sample originating from a harvested adult male mule deer and the second from an adult female white-tailed deer that was struck on the road. The diagnosis was confirmed by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency reference laboratory on Jan. 31, 2024.
In response to the disease being detected in neighboring regions, the Province has established a surveillance and response plan to minimize the risk of spreading within British Columbia. The provincial wildlife veterinarian is leading the response, supported by the chronic wasting disease advisory committee, regional working groups, First Nations, stakeholders, experts, and other partners.
Early response activities will be conducted within an initial 10-kilometer radius from confirmed cases, focusing on disease transmission prevention and detailed situation confirmation. Residents in the initial response area are advised to remain attentive for further directions, including guidance on deer feeding and carcass handling.
For more information, visit the B.C. the Chronic Wasting Disease website: www.gov.bc.ca/chronicwas
