No. 4 – What Precautions Should Processors and Taxidermists Take?

Through the end of deer season, we will be posting a frequently asked question (FAQ) and answer related to chronic wasting disease (CWD) in Pennsylvania in an album on our Facebook page.

We know many of you – hunters, non-hunters, processors, taxidermists and more – have questions about CWD and the effects this disease can cause. We are here as a resource and want to help everyone understand the complexities and details related to CWD in our state.

If you have a specific question related to CWD, email pgccomments@pa.gov.

Here’s the question for week four:

Answer:

To date, CWD has not been found to infect humans. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends humans reduce their exposure to CWD-infected animals.

It is recommended that processors and taxidermists take steps to help reduce their exposure to CWD-infected meat or parts. Individuals should wear latex or nitrile gloves when processing deer meat.

To decrease exposure to high-risk parts, which include the brain, eyes, tonsils, lymph nodes, spinal cord, and spleen, de-bone the meat.

Avoid cutting through the spinal cord, if possible. After handling deer meat, individuals should wash hands and tools thoroughly with soap and water, then sanitize tools using a 50/50 bleach solution.

It is important to note that it is currently unlawful to export high-risk parts from a DMA or import high-risk parts from a CWD-positive state. This helps reduce the spread of this disease.

Click here for more information pertaining to processors and taxidermists.

As a reminder, if you have a specific question related to CWD email it to pgccomments@pa.gov.