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EHD virus likely killing deer in at least six Wisconsin counties
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel • • health
Key Points:
- Wisconsin is experiencing its largest outbreak of epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD), affecting at least six counties in the southeastern region and linked to around 1,700 dead white-tailed deer, according to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
- The disease, spread by biting midges, causes severe internal bleeding, high fever, and organ damage in deer, often leading to death within 3 to 36 hours after symptoms appear.
- Confirmed cases have been reported since August, starting in Washington County, with subsequent detections in Waukesha, Dodge, Ozaukee, Milwaukee, and Jefferson counties; however, the actual number of affected deer is likely higher than reported.
- The DNR does not plan to restrict hunting despite the outbreak and notes that previous outbreaks have seen deer populations recover quickly, with the disease typically subsiding after the first hard frost reduces insect activity.
- EHD does not infect humans, and the DNR is currently testing samples to identify the specific virus serotype involved in this outbreak, with results expected in the coming weeks.
