Pa. game agency watchful for deadly CWD in deer, elk

There's a disease lurking out there that has the potential to decimate the state's deer and elk populations.

So far, chronic wasting disease (CWD) is not a problem in the state, but because its consequences could be so devastating, the Pa. Game Commission is bracing itself for an outbreak.

An emergency drill conducted earlier this month tested the agency's readiness.

"With CWD being uncovered in New York and West Virginia, we must continue to plan," said Game Commission Executive Director Carl G. Roe

First identified in 1967, CWD affects all species of deer, elk and moose. It is always fatal.

There currently is no practical way to test live animals for CWD, and no vaccine to prevent an animal from contracting the disease, nor is there a cure for animals that become infected.

Deer harboring CWD may not show any symptoms for many months. The usual incubation period is around 15 months. Common signs include lowered head and ears, uncoordinated movement, rough-hair coat, weight loss and increased thirst.

The Game Commission has tested nearly 200 elk and more than 10,000 deer killed by hunters over the past five years. Another 500 deer that have died of unknown illness or were exhibiting abnormal behavior also have been tested.

No evidence of CWD has been found so far. Monitoring will continue. Meanwhile, the agency is awaiting results from the hunter-killed deer and elk from the 2006 seasons.