CHRONIC WASTING DISEASE FOUND IN 16 HAMPSHIRE DEER

(01/18/2010)
The Division of Natural Resources says chronic wasting disease was detected in 16 deer killed in Hampshire County during West Virginia's 2009 firearms season.

DNR Director Frank Jezioro said that the infected deer included two does and 14 bucks.

Thirteen were killed within a containment area established in the county.

Jezioro said last week the disease has spread despite the DNR's efforts to contain it.

He says the agency will remind the public that feeding and baiting deer is prohibited within the containment area.

Chronic wasting disease affects the brains and nervous systems of deer and elk.

Since 2005, the disease has been detected in 62 deer in Hampshire County.