SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WICS) — The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is encouraging deer hunters to have their harvests tested for chronic wasting disease (CWD) at designated locations free of charge.
CWD, a fatal disease affecting the central nervous system of deer and elk, was first detected in Illinois in 2002. Since then, state officials have tested 185,896 wild deer, confirming 2,748 cases. The disease is now found across 25 counties in northern and west-central Illinois.
Although CWD is not known to infect humans, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization advise against consuming venison that tests positive. Hunters can have their deer tested at participating vendors, including taxidermists and meat processors, or at self-serve drop-off sites.
Testing is especially encouraged in CWD-affected counties and will not damage the deer skull. During the 2025 firearm seasons, voluntary testing will be available at check stations in Adams and Peoria counties.
Hunters can view their test results online, with priority given to samples from counties with known CWD cases. Between July 2024 and June 2025, officials identified 539 CWD-positive deer across 25 Illinois counties.
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