Chronic wasting disease surveillance in members of the deer family

Chronic wasting disease is a fatal, untreatable disease of the central nervous system affecting members of the wild cervid family (for example, white-tailed deer, American elk, moose and woodland caribou).

The disease can be spread by close contact between animals or by exposure to a contaminated environment. There is evidence the disease may remain infectious in the environment, such as in soil, for years.

Our surveillance program takes samples from areas with the highest risk of chronic wasting disease. Sampling locations vary from year to year and are chosen based on a number of risk factors.

Ministry contact: Natural Resources and Forestry

Additional information

Tags: Economy and Business Economy and Business

Environment and Nat... Environment and Natural Resources

Environment and energy Environment and energy
Geographic coverage: Ontario
Last Validated Date: March 21, 2024
Update frequency: As required