SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WSIL) -- The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is reminding deer hunters about free chronic wasting disease (CWD) testing locations.

CWD is a fatal disease affecting the central nervous system of deer and elk. It was first detected in Illinois in 2002, with 2,748 deer testing positive since then across 25 counties in northern and west-central Illinois.

"Hunters in CWD counties are strongly encouraged to have their deer tested," the IDNR stated. Testing is available at participating vendors, self-serve drop-off sites, and through cooperating taxidermists.

IDNR says hunters can visit participating vendors, which include taxidermists and meat processors, or leave deer heads at self-serve drop-off sites. You can find locations online , on the Hunt Illinoi

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