Chronic Wasting Disease detected near Winkler area

A case of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) has been identified near Winkler, a first for the area.

According to Manitoba Economic Development, Investment, Trade and Natural Resources, this case was found in a female white-tailed deer and was identified by a biological sample submitted by a hunter from the area. This new detection is in an area of Manitoba with no previous detections, noted the Province, adding until this time, positive cases have occurred only in two districts and localized areas along Manitoba's western border.

CWD is an incurable, fatal disease that affects members of the deer family (cervids) including white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk, moose, and caribou. Animals infected with CWD may appear healthy until the later stages of the disease. If the disease spreads and becomes endemic to Manitoba, the Province says there is a serious risk that CWD will threaten the health of all cervid populations in Manitoba.

First detected in Manitoba in 2021, a total of 26 cases have been identified including 22 mule deer and four white-tailed deer. 

CWD is not known as a human health risk but meat from a CWD-infected animal is not recommended for consumption. Hunters who are active in areas where CWD is a concern should get harvested animals tested, added the Province, practice safe carcass-handling protocols and avoid consumption of any animal that has tested positive for CWD.

The province thanks hunters for participating in efforts to manage CWD by submitting samples to the provincially run testing program. Testing turnaround times now average approximately 6 to 8 weeks following the submission of a sample. 

Sample results from harvested animals will be posted here.

Hunters with questions or concerns about an animal that has been harvested can email CWD@gov.mb.ca or call 1-204-638-4570.

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