Idaho tests nearly 40000 samples for chronic wasting disease since 1997

During the Senate Resources & Environment Meeting held on March 5, 2025, in Idaho, significant discussions centered around Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) and its implications for wildlife and public health. The meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts to monitor and manage CWD, a prion disease affecting deer and elk populations.

Director Fredericks reported that Idaho has been systematically testing for CWD since 1997, with nearly 40,000 samples collected over the years. This extensive testing has revealed localized "hot spots" of the disease, dispelling any misconceptions that its recent detection is solely due to increased testing efforts. The persistence of CWD in certain areas raises concerns about wildlife management and the potential impact on hunting practices.

A notable exchange occurred regarding the resilience of prions, the infectious agents responsible for CWD. Senator O'Connell inquired whether forest fires could eliminate these prions. Fredericks suggested that while intense fires might destroy prions, many fires do not reach the necessary temperatures, leaving the risk of prion persistence in the environment.

The discussion also touched on the potential risks to humans consuming meat from infected animals. Fredericks acknowledged that while many hunters may unknowingly consume meat from CWD-positive deer, there have been no confirmed cases of the disease transferring to humans. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises against eating meat from infected animals as a precautionary measure. The state offers free testing for hunters concerned about CWD, allowing them to make informed decisions about their consumption.

The meeting concluded with a focus on the reliability of CWD testing. Fredericks explained that while there is a slight chance of false positives, the testing process includes confirmation steps to ensure accuracy, with a reported 98% certainty for double-confirmed positive results.

Overall, the discussions underscored the importance of ongoing surveillance and public awareness regarding CWD, as well as the need for continued research into its effects on wildlife and potential human health implications. As the state navigates these challenges, the commitment to testing and education remains crucial for both wildlife management and public safety.