Chronic Wasting Disease Surges in NC | Durham News

North Carolina’s deer population is facing a silent but deadly threat: chronic wasting disease, which surged 300% this hunting season with 34 new cases — including its first appearance in Edgecombe County. Though still rare statewide, the rapid spread alarms experts who blame human actions like transporting deer and feeding sites for accelerating transmission of the fatal prion disease. While it doesn’t infect humans, it’s already decimated deer herds elsewhere, prompting urgent action. Eleven counties are now under watch, with strict bans on baiting and deer transport to curb spread. As habitats shrink and deer roam more densely, officials are racing to educate hunters and limit human-driven transmission before this silent killer reshapes the state’s wildlife future. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/c18988a560409944