Chronic Wasting Disease: A Scientific Opinion from EFSA
Overview
The European Commission has requested a Scientific Opinion from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) on chronic wasting disease (CWD) in cervids (deer, elk, moose, and reindeer). CWD is a fatal prion disease that affects the central nervous system of these animals.
Key Findings
EFSA's Scientific Opinion provides an updated assessment of the state of knowledge on CWD, including:
- A definition of CWD as any transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE) that affects cervids.
- A description of the clinical signs and pathology of CWD.
- An assessment of the risk factors for CWD transmission.
- Recommendations for surveillance, control, and eradication of CWD.
Implications
EFSA's Scientific Opinion has important implications for the management of CWD in the European Union. The Opinion provides guidance on:
- How to prevent the introduction of CWD into the EU.
- How to control and eradicate CWD if it is introduced into the EU.
- How to protect human and animal health from CWD.
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