Wisconsin DNR reports over 700 deer deaths linked to Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease
More than 700 dead deer have been reported in Washington and Waukesha counties as a viral outbreak spreads, according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources said it has logged more than 700 reports of dead deer in Washington and Waukesha counties amid an outbreak of Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD). The agency detected the virus in two carcasses found near Richfield and West Bend in Washington County, and noted that many of the sightings involved apparently healthy deer found dead near water on private property.
The DNR told 12 News it receives EHD reports almost daily, with over 600 suspect cases from Washington County and more than 100 from Waukesha County as of the morning of the report. The disease is transmitted by midges, small biting flies, and officials said there is no practical way to halt its spread. They added that a frost could reduce midge activity and potentially slow transmission, though it is unclear whether deer mortality will decline before colder weather arrives.
EHD does not affect humans. Affected deer may show excessive salivation, foaming around the nose and mouth, and appear weak or unusually approachable.