United States: A new chronic wasting disease case confirmed in mature deer, often referred to as “zombie deer,” found its way to Washtenaw County in Michigan.
Infected Deer Found in Salem Township
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources identified Washtenaw County as the 15th site in the state where they discovered chronic wasting disease in its wild deer population. Medical tests confirmed that one adult male buck from Salem Township displayed abnormal behavior, as reported by CBS News.
“This case was identified thanks to a resident who saw a deer that appeared ill and reported it to us,” Chad Fedewa, acting DNR deer, elk and moose management specialist said.
The tracking of Chronic wasting disease occurs through state official oversight for both wild and farm-kept deer populations. The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development revealed the presence of the disease Tuesday in deer managed by private owners in Osceola County.
Washtenaw is now the 15th Michigan county where chronic wasting disease has been identified in the wild deer population…An adult buck found acting ill in Salem Township recently tested positive for CWD.https://t.co/f0xT7Fmto9
— Terry Singeltary (@SingeltaryTerry) March 12, 2025
Disease Monitoring & Testing
A progressive, fatal neurological condition known as this disease affects deer/elk/moose/cervid species alike. The infection shows no outward signs in infected animals at first but will eventually lead to abnormal behaviors and wasting symptoms followed by progressive illness during later disease stages.
Wild deer in Michigan undergo disease identification tests through joint efforts of the Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory and the DNR. Confirmatory testing occurred at the National Veterinary Services Laboratory located in Ames, Iowa.
Efforts to Control the Spread
Fedewa explained that the discovery of chronic wasting disease in Washtenaw County matches the gradual disease progression across Michigan. The value of each piece of data enables us to create science-backed decisions that benefit Michigan’s wildlife population. Thanks to Michigan residents who value deer, they continue their active involvement in these efforts, as reported by CBS News.
To assist stop the spread, Michigan has implemented a number of hunting and wildlife laws and guidelines.