A virus that is fatal for deer has returned to southern Michigan, with cases confirmed this year in Branch, Jackson, and Lenawee counties.
Epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) causes sudden fever, weakness, and internal bleeding in white-tailed deer. Infected animals often seek water to cool down before dying. First identified in Michigan in 1955, EHD outbreaks occur in late summer and early fall. The disease, which is spread by biting midges, stops spreading after the first hard freeze kills off the midge population.
While local herds can suffer sharp, short-term losses during an outbreak, EHD has not caused long-term population declines across the state over its 70-year history. The disease typically strikes an area hard in a single season without immediately recurring.
Local hunters preparing for the upcoming season should note that EHD cannot infect humans, pets, or livestock. Handling or eating venison from a harvested deer remains safe, as the virus does not affect meat quality.
Because there is no cure or vaccine for wild deer, wildlife biologists rely on cold weather to naturally end the seasonal outbreak. Hunters who spot sick or dead deer near water sources are encouraged to report their sightings to state wildlife officials.
