Definition & Meaning of "mad cow disease"

What is "mad cow disease"?

Mad cow disease, scientifically known as bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), is a rare but deadly neurological disorder that affects cows. It is caused by abnormal proteins called prions, which damage the brain and spinal cord tissues, leading to progressive neurological symptoms. In humans, consuming meat contaminated with BSE can lead to variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD), a similar condition that affects the brain. Symptoms of vCJD may include psychiatric symptoms, mental decline, muscle stiffness, and eventually severe neurological damage. There is no cure for vCJD, and it is usually deadly. Measures such as strict laws on cattle feed and slaughter practices have been placed to prevent the spread of mad cow disease and protect public health.