variant CJD

Variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD) is a rare and fatal brain disorder caused by abnormal proteins called prions. It primarily affects younger individuals and has been linked to the consumption of beef products contaminated with the prions responsible for bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), also known as "mad cow disease." vCJD leads to severe neurological symptoms, including psychiatric issues, memory loss, and movement problems. Over time, it causes progressive brain damage. Diagnosis is challenging, and there is currently no cure or effective treatment, making it a serious public health concern in connection with food safety.