Hunters, wildlife enthusiasts, researchers, and University of Minnesota leaders gathered at the Bell Museum in September for “Spotlight Science: Chronic Wasting Disease.” The event brought an animal health perspective to the discussion on chronic wasting disease (CWD), focusing on College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) research and outreach.

The Bell Museum joined forces with CVM Assistant Professors Peter Larsen, PhD, and Roxanne Larsen, PhD, as well as Marc Schwabenlander, MPH, program and outreach manager at the Minnesota Center for Prion Research and Outreach, and the Center for Animal Health and Food Safety to host the event, which featured three expert speakers, interactive learning activities for children and adults, and the opportunity to see CWD samples under a microscope. The event also highlighted new diagnostic tests that are currently being developed at the CVM by Larsen and the Minnesota Center for Prion Research and Outreach.

The newly remodeled Bell Museum was a scenic backdrop for the Saturday event. As guests also explored the Bell’s intricate dioramas showcasing scenes of Minnesota wildlife, they could situate discussions of CWD within the broader context of natural history and conservation.

CWD is a fatal neurological disease that affects cervids, such as deer, moose, and elk. It has spread to more than half of the United States as well as Canada, several Scandinavian countries, and South Korea. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends against eating meat from CWD-infected animals.