Chronic Wasting Disease Detected in Farmed Deer in Osceola County

By Andi Anderson

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) has confirmed a case of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in a farmed white-tailed deer in Osceola County. The seven-year-old deer was detected through the state’s CWD surveillance program, which monitors farmed deer populations.

CWD is a fatal neurological disease affecting cervid species such as white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk, and moose. It spreads directly through animal contact and indirectly through the environment. Infected deer may not show symptoms for years, but eventually, they experience weight loss, abnormal behavior, and physical deterioration.

State Veterinarian Dr. Nora Wineland emphasized the importance of early detection and response to limit the disease’s spread. MDARD continues to work closely with herd owners, hunters, and government agencies to manage the disease effectively.

CWD is not new to Michigan. Since 2008, 16 cases have been confirmed in farmed deer across multiple counties, including Kent, Lake, Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo, and Osceola.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has identified CWD in free-ranging deer since 2015, with cases found in 14 counties across the Upper and Lower Peninsulas.

Authorities are now investigating whether other farmed deer may have been exposed to the disease. While no cases of CWD transmission to humans have been reported, health officials advise against consuming infected animals.

Surveillance and disease management efforts will continue to help protect Michigan’s deer populations and agricultural economy.

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