Chronic Wasting Disease Continues Speading in Indiana Deer Herd

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources Division of Fish and Wildlife says chronic wasting disease continues to be detected in Indiana deer, including three new detections during the 2025-2026 hunting season.

According to the agency, chronic wasting disease, commonly known as CWD, was first identified in Indiana's deer population in 2024. Since then, the state has confirmed additional cases each year.

What Is Chronic Wasting Disease?

CWD is a fatal neurological disease that affects deer and other members of the deer family.

The disease is caused by abnormal proteins called prions and can spread through contact between infected animals as well as contaminated environments.

Wildlife officials say there is currently no cure and no effective way to completely eliminate the disease once it becomes established in a wild deer population.

Because of that reality, Indiana DNR says its long-term strategy is to focus on monitoring and managing the disease rather than attempting to eradicate it.

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Indiana Says It is Focused on "Living With" CWD

According to officials, Indiana's response plan centers on surveillance and collaboration with hunters, landowners, taxidermists, meat processors, and local partners.

The state says it is not currently implementing several aggressive management measures sometimes seen elsewhere.

The DNR says it is not:

• Conducting statewide deer sharpshooting or culling
• Restricting deer carcass movement within Indiana
• Requiring mandatory CWD testing
• Increasing deer hunting bag limits
• Implementing a statewide deer feeding ban

Instead, the agency says its current approach focuses on education, testing access, and tracking disease locations.

Read More: Indiana DNR Issues Warning About Bird Feeders

Free Testing Available for Indiana Hunters

Indiana officials say free CWD testing remains available for hunters through participating Fish & Wildlife Areas, state fish hatcheries, taxidermists, and meat processors.

The DNR also says it will continue to publicly share positive detection locations so hunters can make informed decisions.

Resources are also available for landowners looking to reduce the chances of chronic wasting disease becoming established on their property.

CWD Has Become a Growing Concern Nationwide

Chronic wasting disease has continued spreading across multiple states over the past several years, creating ongoing concerns among wildlife agencies, hunters, and conservation groups.

The disease affects the brain and nervous system of infected animals and is always fatal.

Indiana's latest update signals that wildlife officials expect CWD management to remain a long-term challenge moving forward.

Additional information about Indiana's Chronic Wasting Disease Response Plan is available through the Indiana Department of Natural Resources website.