ANNAPOLIS, MD—The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced this week that 62 white-tailed deer tested positive for chronic wasting disease in 2024, a neurological condition affecting deer, elk, and moose. The discovery marks an increase in confirmed cases within the state, prompting an expansion of the existing chronic wasting disease management area.
Of the positive samples, all but one were found within the previously established management zone, which includes Allegany (34 cases), Frederick (7), Montgomery (3), and Washington (17) counties. For the first time, chronic wasting disease was detected in one deer sampled from Howard County, leading to the expansion.
In response, the chronic wasting disease management area for 2025 has been broadened to encompass all of Allegany, Baltimore, Carroll, Frederick, Howard, Montgomery, and Washington counties. Hunters are advised to consult the Wildlife and Heritage Service’s website and the 2025 Maryland Guide to Hunting and Trapping for updated information.
The department conducts annual surveillance and collaborates with neighboring states to monitor the disease. Management areas are established to inform hunters, regulate carcass transport, and help slow the disease’s spread.
“Unfortunately, chronic wasting disease continues to spread nationally, regionally, and within the state of Maryland,” said Karina Stonesifer, Director of the Wildlife and Heritage Service. “As the disease spreads within Maryland, we will continue to monitor it closely to provide the public with reliable information and manage the impact on our deer herd.”
Maryland’s surveillance program began in 1999, with more than 15,706 deer tested to date. In 2024, 1,312 samples were submitted for laboratory testing. Chronic wasting disease was first confirmed in Maryland in February 2011. The latest findings bring the total number of positive cases in Maryland to 285. Maryland is among 36 U.S. states and four Canadian provinces with documented cases of chronic wasting disease in free-ranging cervids, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
Despite the spread, officials emphasize that concerns about chronic wasting disease should not deter deer hunting or venison consumption. Research suggests the disease cannot be naturally transmitted to humans. However, as a precaution, hunters are advised to avoid consuming meat from sick animals and to remove the brain, lymph nodes, or spinal column from any deer, as these parts are typically discarded during butchering.
Hunters and other wildlife enthusiasts can assist the department by reporting any deer that appear emaciated, unhealthy, or exhibit abnormal behavior. Hunters are also encouraged to grant permission for the department to collect tissue samples from harvested deer. The department can be reached at 410-260-8540 for reporting or inquiries. More information on chronic wasting disease in Maryland is available on the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website.
Image via Maryland Department of Natural Resources
