Chronic Wasting Disease Confirmed in Michigan’s Genesee County for the First Time

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has confirmed the first case of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in Genesee County. The discovery, announced on October 3, 2025, marks a significant development in the state’s ongoing battle against the fatal neurological disease that affects white‑tailed deer and other cervids. Wildlife officials are urging hunters and residents to remain vigilant as surveillance and management efforts intensify. 🧬 What Is Chronic Wasting Disease? - Chronic Wasting Disease is a fatal, contagious neurological disorder that affects deer, elk, and moose. It is caused by abnormal proteins known as prions, which damage the animal’s brain and nervous system. - Symptoms include drastic weight loss, disorientation, drooping ears, and lack of fear of humans. - The disease is always fatal, with no known cure or vaccine. - CWD spreads through direct animal‑to‑animal contact and indirectly via contaminated soil, plants, or water. - First identified in captive deer in Colorado in the 1960s, CWD has since spread to more than 30 U.S. states and several Canadian provinces. 📍 The Case in Genesee County According to the Michigan DNR, the infected deer was discovered during routine surveillance in Genesee County, located in southeastern Michigan. - This is the first confirmed case of CWD in the county. - The deer tested positive after being submitted by a hunter for voluntary testing. - The DNR has not yet reported additional positive cases in the immediate area, but enhanced monitoring is underway. The confirmation expands the known presence of CWD in Michigan, where cases have previously been detected in counties such as Ingham, Clinton, and Montcalm. 🦌 Impact on Michigan’s Deer Herds Michigan is home to an estimated 1.7 million white‑tailed deer, making deer hunting one of the state’s most popular outdoor traditions. The spread of CWD poses serious risks: - Population health: Infected deer eventually die, and the disease can reduce herd numbers over time. - Hunting heritage: Deer hunting generates hundreds of millions of dollars annually for Michigan’s economy. - Public perception: While there is no evidence that CWD can infect humans, the disease raises concerns about venison consumption and food safety. 🎯 DNR Response and Management Measures The Michigan DNR has announced immediate steps to contain and monitor the disease: - Expanding surveillance zones around the detection site in Genesee County. - Offering free testing for hunters who submit deer heads at designated check stations. - Encouraging hunters to properly dispose of carcass remains to prevent environmental contamination. - Continuing public outreach to educate hunters and residents about CWD risks. Officials emphasize that early detection and hunter cooperation are critical to slowing the spread of the disease. 🌍 CWD Across the United States Michigan is not alone in facing the challenge of Chronic Wasting Disease. - As of 2025, CWD has been confirmed in 34 states, including neighboring Wisconsin, Illinois, and Ohio. - Some states, such as Wyoming and Colorado, have been dealing with the disease for decades. - The spread of CWD has prompted nationwide debates about deer farming, baiting practices, and interstate transport of carcasses. The U.S. Geological Survey and state wildlife agencies continue to track the disease’s expansion, warning that once established, CWD is nearly impossible to eradicate. 🧑‍🌾 What Hunters and Landowners Should Do The DNR is urging hunters and landowners in Genesee County and surrounding areas to take proactive steps: - Submit harvested deer for testing, especially in surveillance zones. - Avoid baiting and feeding deer, which can increase animal‑to‑animal contact. - Dispose of carcasses responsibly, using approved landfills or DNR drop‑off sites. - Report sick or abnormal deer to local wildlife officials immediately. By following these guidelines, hunters can play a direct role in protecting Michigan’s deer herd and preserving the state’s hunting tradition. 📊 Economic and Cultural Significance Deer hunting is deeply woven into Michigan’s culture and economy: - Each year, more than 500,000 hunters take to the field during firearm and archery seasons. - The activity contributes over $2.3 billion annually to the state’s economy through license sales, equipment purchases, and tourism. - Beyond economics, deer hunting is a family tradition that connects generations of Michiganders to the outdoors. - The spread of CWD threatens not only wildlife health but also this cultural heritage. 🔎 Conclusion The confirmation of Chronic Wasting Disease in Genesee County marks a new chapter in Michigan’s fight against one of the most serious wildlife diseases in North America. While the discovery is concerning, wildlife officials stress that with hunter cooperation, rigorous testing, and responsible management, the spread of CWD can be slowed. As the 2025 hunting season continues, Michigan hunters are being called upon to remain vigilant, submit their harvests for testing, and help safeguard the future of the state’s deer herd.