Can you get a disease from venison?

Yes, you can get diseases from venison. Here are some of the most common risks:

* CWD (Chronic Wasting Disease): A fatal neurological disease affecting deer, elk, and moose. It is caused by a prion, which is a misfolded protein. CWD is highly contagious and can be spread through direct contact with infected animals, as well as through contaminated soil and water. There is no known cure for CWD, and it is thought to be transmissible to humans, though this is not definitively proven.

* Brucellosis: A bacterial infection that can cause fever, chills, sweating, and muscle aches. It is spread through contact with infected animals, as well as through contaminated milk and meat.

* Toxoplasmosis: A parasitic infection that can cause flu-like symptoms, muscle aches, and headaches. It is spread through contact with infected animals, as well as through contaminated food and water.

* E. coli: A bacteria that can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps. It is spread through contact with infected animals, as well as through contaminated food and water.

* Salmonella: A bacteria that can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps. It is spread through contact with infected animals, as well as through contaminated food and water.

* Trichinosis: A parasitic infection that can cause muscle aches, fever, and fatigue. It is spread through eating undercooked meat from infected animals.

To reduce your risk of getting a disease from venison, you should:

* Hunt in areas where CWD is not present.

* Handle venison with care and wear gloves.

* Cook venison to an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

* Avoid eating venison that is visibly diseased or spoiled.

It is important to note that venison is a nutritious and delicious food source, and the risk of getting a disease from it is relatively low. By following the guidelines above, you can help to ensure that your venison is safe to eat.

It's important to check with your local wildlife agency for specific regulations and advisories regarding venison consumption in your area. They can provide information on CWD prevalence, recommended handling practices, and testing availability.