(NEXSTAR) — Deer hunting season is upon us across the Midwest, prompting a reminder from wildlife officials: Be on the lookout for chronic wasting disease, or CWD.

CWD is a contagious, fatal, neurological illness that can impact not only white-tailed deer, but other North American cervids like mule deer, elk, and moose. It was first discovered in the U.S. in 1967 and has since been detected in more than 30 states, though officials note it may be present in other states but not yet detected.

If you’re planning to hunt any deer this year, here are four things to know about chronic wasting disease, including whether it can impact humans and if an infected deer’s meat is safe to eat.

What is chronic wasting disease?

Often referred to as CWD, chronic wasting disease is a prion disease, which means the proteins in the body are misfolding. This will cause symptoms that will eventually lead to death, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains.

CWD is contagious and believed to be spread when an animal comes in contact with........

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