Hunters can receive mail-in sampling kits to help the state monitor for chronic wasting disease.
The fatal, contagious neurological disease often is referred to as “zombie deer disease” because of the behavioral changes it can cause in infected deer and other cervids.
Chronic wasting disease first was found in Illinois in 2002 in Boone County, according to Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Since then, 3,410 deer have tested positive in 28 counties, mostly in northern and central Illinois. Since July 1, 2025, 662 deer have tested positive in 28 Illinois counties, including Adams and Scott, according to the natural resources department.
A human case of chronic wasting disease has never been reported, but scientists still are studying the risk, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Health officials advise against eating the meat of an infected animal.
The free test kits will include instructions for removing lymph node samples from harvested deer. Results from the mail-in tests will be posted online when available, usually within two to four weeks, although priority will be given to samples from counties with known cases, according to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Those who submit a positive test will be contacted by text or email.
Hunters can request up to two kits at a time while supplies last by going to huntillinois.org/cwd-sampling or by contacting a local district wildlife biologist.
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