Recent studies have shown that white-tailed deer in multiple states have been infected with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 in humans. While studies suggest that infected deer do not show symptoms, they can shed virus in nasal secretions and transmit it to other deer, highlighting the need for proper biosecurity measures.
In a USDA study, 40% of samples collected in 2021 from wild deer from Michigan, Illinois, Pennsylvania and New York had antibodies to the virus. In addition, the USDA confirmed samples collected from wild deer in Ohio between January and March 2021 were infected with SARS-CoV-2.
The most recent pre-print report examined wild and farm-raised deer in Iowa. SARS-CoV-2 viral material was detected in one-third of deer sampled between September 2020 and January 2021. When the genetic material from the deer was compared to the viral strains circulating in humans, the results suggested there is a spillover of infection from humans to deer followed by transmission between deer.
There is still much to learn about SARS-CoV-2 in deer and the potential implications for human and deer populations. While there is no evidence of white-tailed deer being a source of infection for humans, we cannot rule out the possibility of viral mutation to become a source for human or other animal infections, as has been implicated with mink-to-human and mink-to-pet infections.
Here are some practical steps you can take to minimize potential infection transfer between humans and deer:
- People with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 should not be allowed on farm-raised deer facilities and should isolate from people and animals until cleared to return to normal activities.
- Masks should be worn at all times in the proximity of farm-raised deer.
- Humans working with farm-raised deer should get vaccinated against COVID-19.
- When handling deer or carcasses:
- Wear rubber or disposable gloves.
- Wear a mask.
- Take extra care while handling organs of the respiratory tract (lungs, trachea, mouth/nasal cavity).
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke.
- When finished handling and cleaning carcasses:
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Wash all knives, equipment, and surfaces that were in contact with the carcass with soap and water and a disinfectant.
- If you are immunocompromised, confer with your health care provider for guidance.
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