SUGARLOAF TOWNSHIP, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)— It is a growing crisis for deer populations across the region.
Chronic Wasting Disease is spreading at an alarming rate, and experts say once it is in a herd, there is no turning back.
Wildlife officials issued the warning as the disease continues to spread among deer across the state.
The fatal neurological illness, has been found in Luzerne and Carbon Counties, raising concerns about its impact on hunting.
The disease spreads through infected saliva, urine, and carcasses.
Officials urge hunters to follow testing guidelines to identify infected animals.
“We need to gather information and present that to the board of commissioners in April which will potentially create and or expand a disease management area referred to as a DMA in Pennsylvania,” stated Aaron Morrow, Lieutenant, Pennsylvania Game Commission.
“It’s happened in Pennsylvania, and it’s just another area that’s going to be affected with it so unfortunately, the hunters in that area are going to have to adapt to the new regulations and rules that are chronic disease,” added Stephan Dancho, hunter, Sugarloaf Township, Luzerne County.
Experts say the best way to slow the spread is through increased testing of deer and careful carcass disposal.
The disease does not usually spread to humans.
