New study explores potential cross-species spread of chronic wasting disease
Researchers at the University of Calgary have discovered that chronic wasting disease (CWD) prions can be transmitted between species even when clinical symptoms are not present. The study highlights the evolving nature of prions, which makes predicting the zoonotic potential of the disease difficult.
Why it matters
Understanding the cross-species transmission of CWD is critical for public health monitoring, as the disease continues to spread geographically and could potentially pose risks to humans or livestock.
Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is best known as a disease affecting wildlife such as deer and elk. However, a new study from researchers at the University of Calgary and their international collaborators examined whether the disease could potentially move beyond cervid (hooved, plant-eating) animals and infect other species.
The article reports on scientific findings from a university study without political or social framing.
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