B.C. Investigating Possible Case of ‘Zombie Deer Disease’ in Okanagan
The Canadian Press | Posted: 2025/11/25 04:29:00 | Last Updated: 2 hours ago
Chronic wasting disease is a fatal, infectious illness affecting cervids like deer, elk, moose, and caribou.
Image | deer
Caption: The province is investigating a potential case of chronic wasting disease in a deer east of Enderby-the frist suspected detection in the Okanagan and the first identified outside the province’s established CWD management zone in the Kootenay region. (Mitchell Kincaid Cook)
The B.C. government is investigating a potential case of chronic wasting disease in a deer harvested in the Okanagan region. If confirmed, this would be the first detection of the so-called “zombie deer disease” in B.C. outside the existing management zone in the Kootenay area.
A hunter submitted a sample from the white-tailed deer killed east of Enderby. Initial testing suggests the disease may be present. The sample is now with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency for further testing, and results are expected by early December.
Chronic wasting disease is a fatal and infectious illness that affects species like deer, elk, moose, and caribou. It causes emaciation, behavioral changes, and ultimately, death. The disease is caused by prions, which are misfolded proteins that accumulate in the animal’s brain and other tissues.
The province says it’s taking the potential case seriously and is working with the CFIA to determine the extent of the disease. They are also urging hunters in the Okanagan to report any sick or unusual-behaving deer they encounter.
Currently, the CWD management zone in B.C. is focused on the Kootenay region. This investigation expands the potential range of the disease within the province. officials are concerned about the potential impact on wildlife populations and the hunting industry.