Wisconsin reports over 1,700 deer deaths as EHD spreads to six counties

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources said an outbreak of epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) has likely spread to six counties in the southeast and is linked to at least 1,700 dead white-tailed deer. The virus, transmitted by biting midges, was first detected in August after unusually high deer mortality reports in Washington County. Laboratory testing of carcasses from Washington and Waukesha counties confirmed the presence of the EHD virus.

"Based on reports of dead and sick deer over the last two months, the disease has now likely spread to at least six counties," DNR herd-health specialist Erin Larson said.

As of Sept. 25, the DNR recorded roughly 1,200 deaths in Washington County, about 390 in Waukesha County, 80 each in Dodge and Ozaukee counties, and smaller numbers in Milwaukee and Jefferson counties. The agency noted that these figures reflect only reported carcasses and that the true toll is probably higher.

The department continues to collect reports and prioritize sampling in areas where the virus has not yet been confirmed. It does not plan to alter antler-less deer tag availability or hunting regulations in the affected counties. Historically, Wisconsin deer herds have rebounded quickly after EHD outbreaks, which typically subside after the first hard frost reduces midge activity.

EHD is an acute, often fatal viral disease that causes internal bleeding, high fever and organ damage in deer. While the disease can kill deer within hours of symptom onset, it does not infect humans. The DNR is testing a recent Waukesha sample to determine the virus serotype, with results expected in the coming weeks.