Cervid Health Program

Last Modified: September 05, 2024

APHIS monitors and manages infectious disease of farmed cervids (such as deer, elk, and moose). We also regulate the movement of wild cervids in interstate commerce and promote biosecurity and emergency preparedness to protect animal and public health as well as international trade.

Farmed Cervid Diseases

Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is a deadly, neurological illness that affects deer, elk, moose, and other members of the Cervidae family.

Bovine tuberculosis is a rare, bacterial disease that can affect deer, cattle, goats, dogs, humans, and other mammals.

Brucellosis (also known as contagious abortion or Bang's disease) is a costly disease of livestock and wildlife.

Disease Prevention and Management

The CWD Herd Certiﬁcation Program is a cooperative eﬀort between APHIS, State animal health and wildlife agencies, and farmed cervid owners.

Both natural and manmade disasters can affect farmed cervids. The best way to protect your herd is through emergency planning.

Moving wild-caught cervids across State lines is prohibited unless Federal requirements are met.

NAHMS conducted a study in 2014 on health and management practices on U.S. farmed cervid operations.

APHIS provides millions of dollars each year to State and Tribal governments, universities, and others to control CWD in wild and farmed cervids, such as deer and elk.

Disease Surveillance and Research in Wild Cervids

APHIS Wildlife Services conducts surveillance and research on dozens of wildlife diseases, including CWD, bovine tuberculosis, and SARS-CoV-2. For more information, visit our National Wildlife Disease Program and National Wildlife Research Center. APHIS and other One Health partners are also conducting projects and studies to protect our Nation's animals and people from SARS-CoV-2 and other zoonotic diseases.