Chronic Wasting Disease Detected in Utah Wildlife
The state recorded 83 positive cases among 2,000 animals tested for the fatal neurological condition this year.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Hunting
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The Utah Department of Wildlife Resources has identified 83 cases of chronic wasting disease during 2026 testing. The fatal condition has affected wildlife populations across the state for over two decades.
Why it matters
Chronic wasting disease remains a critical concern for wildlife management due to its 100% mortality rate. Officials continue monitoring the disease, which is caused by misfolded proteins that spread through environmental and social contact.
Testing identified 83 positive cases from 2,000 animals screened during the 2026 season. The disease has persisted in Utah for over 20 years and maintains a 100% mortality rate.
The players
Utah Department of Wildlife Resources
This state agency is responsible for managing Utah's wildlife populations and conducting disease surveillance programs.
Ginger Stout
She serves as the State Veterinarian and provides expert analysis on animal health indicators and disease progression.
The details
Infected animals show signs like lethargy, droopy ears, and excessive salivation, with confirmed cases in Moab, Vernal, Bountiful, the La Sal Mountains, and the Nebo area. Biologists test for the disease by removing lymph nodes located behind the jaw of animals.
Timeline
Chronic wasting disease has been present in Utah for over 20 years.
State Veterinarian Ginger Stout discussed disease signs in March 2026.
Wildlife officials tested over 2,000 animals during the 2026 hunting season.
Culture Shift
This ongoing trend highlights the long-term struggle to manage persistent wildlife diseases that have been endemic to the region for over two decades. The persistence of these pathogens forces a shift in how residents and hunters engage with natural landscapes and wildlife populations.
Residents and hunters should remain aware of potential disease hotspots like Moab and the La Sal Mountains when interacting with wildlife. Because there is no known human case, the impact remains focused on wildlife population health rather than direct public safety mandates.
The takeaway
The disease persists in the environment and causes total mortality in infected wildlife. Hunters are encouraged to follow state guidance on testing to help track the distribution of the disease.
What happens next
Detections of the disease are expected to continue rising through the remainder of the 2026 hunting season.
Further reading
Learn more about local wildlife management strategies on the Utah Hunting page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Utah Public Radio.
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