Chronic Wasting Disease Detected in Tennessee Deer

A deer harvested in Lewis County, Tennessee, has tested positive for chronic wasting disease (CWD), a fatal neurological disease that affects deer, elk, moose, and other cervids. As a result, the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) has implemented new transportation regulations within the CWD management zone, which includes 23 counties. Hunters are prohibited from moving whole or field-dressed deer carcasses or unapproved parts outside of CWD-affected counties, but approved parts such as deboned meat, antlers, and finished taxidermy products can be transported statewide. The TWRA encourages hunters to participate in CWD testing and provides drop-off freezers for samples.