Risk of vCJD in humans

Variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (vCJD) is a rare, fatal brain disorder caused by abnormal proteins called prions, often linked to consuming contaminated beef from cattle infected with Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (mad cow disease). The risk to humans remains very low due to strict food safety controls and surveillance. Most people are not exposed, and past outbreaks have significantly decreased. While vCJD affects the brain and nervous system, it progresses quickly and is currently untreatable. Overall, with current measures in place, the likelihood of contracting vCJD in humans is extremely minimal.