As heard on Outdoor Journal Radio
Scientists have discovered that wild pigs in parts of the U.S. may be carrying and spreading chronic wasting disease (CWD)—a deadly illness that affects deer, elk, and other cervids.
CWD is caused by prions, which are infectious proteins that attack the brain and nervous system. It spreads through contact with infected animals or contaminated environments, and once an area has CWD, it’s almost impossible to get rid of.
A new study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found prions in wild pigs from regions where CWD is already common, including Arkansas and Texas. Researchers believe the pigs could either be infected themselves or simply carrying the prions, helping spread the disease further.
Since wild pigs roam freely and often share space with deer, they could be accidentally transporting prions to new locations, making it harder to control CWD. Scientists warn that this could have serious consequences for wildlife conservation and hunting industries.
Experts say more research is needed to understand exactly how wild pigs interact with CWD and what can be done to stop its spread. In the meantime, wildlife officials may need to monitor wild pig populations more closely to prevent further contamination.
