Diseases associated with translocation of captive cervids in North America

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe privatization of captive cervids, with associated interstate movement of cervids, poses a substantial health risk to native free‐ranging wildlife and domestic animals in North America. Captive cervid operations provide an avenue for transmission of diseases such as chronic wasting disease that could have significant impact on wild cervid populations. In addition, other infectious parasites and pathogens that are potentially associated with captive cervid operations and translocation include, but are not limited to the agents of brucellosis (Brucella abortus), bovine tuberculosis (Mycobacterium bovis), hemorrhagic disease (Orbivirus spp.), bovine viral diarrhea (Pestivirus spp.), deer meningeal worm (Parelaphostrongylus tenuis), Johne's disease (Mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis), and various arthropod‐borne diseases. Transmission of disease agents into previously uninfected states and provinces through translocation of live animals can have adverse consequences. Monitoring and treatment to combat disease outbreaks associated with livestock–wildlife transmission costs states and provinces hundreds of millions of dollars. Inconsistency in jurisdiction, financial responsibility, and indemnity can lead to distrust and poor working relationships between state or provincial wildlife and agriculture departments. Although infectious disease transmission to humans has not been historically associated with wild deer, the translocation of cervids in conjunction with captivity can potentially lead to transmission of zoonotic disease agents including brucellosis and tuberculosis. We summarize the various disease agents associated with captive cervid operations and activities, potential for disease transmission to native wildlife and livestock, and associated costs. Proactive, rather than reactive, actions to prevent disease transmission from captive to wild animals should be of high priority for animal managers and regulatory agencies. © 2016 The Wildlife Society.