The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources has confirmed a case of chronic wasting disease in an adult male deer legally harvested in Vienna.

The deer was originally taken to a taxidermist in October of 2022 where the DWR obtained a sample as part of their regular surveillance efforts.

The deer originally showed no signs of disease and appeared in good condition. CWD is a progressive disease that affects the brain, spinal cord, and other tissues while causing drastic weight loss, lack of coordination, excessive thirst, and lack of fear of people.

No regulatory changes will be made until the end of hunting season but the DWR recommends to not transport carcasses out of Fairfax County and to double bag deer parts and place them in the landfill.

CWD testing is available as well with locations found here.