Epizootic hemorrhagic disease confirmed in deer across four Michigan counties

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) confirmed that epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD), a viral illness spread by biting midges, has been detected in free-ranging whitetail deer in Branch, Ingham, Jackson and Lenawee counties this year. The disease, which does not affect humans, pets or other wildlife, causes high fever and dehydration, leading infected deer to seek water and often die near lakes and rivers.

"Typically with this disease you can see a large number of deer die in a short period of time, mortalities in the same areas," said Brent Rudolph, DNR deer, elk and moose management specialist. He added that the virus progresses rapidly once deer are exposed and that localized outbreaks can temporarily reduce deer numbers in affected areas.

Hunters have reported sizable die-offs, with one observer noting dozens of dead deer along a riverbank near Swains Lake in Jackson County and others describing similar sightings in ponds and lakes across the region. While the virus is isolated to deer, the DNR advises that any harvested deer appearing sick should not be consumed.

EHD usually appears in late summer and early fall, with outbreaks intensifying after wet springs and hot, dry summers. The first frost typically curtails transmission by killing the midges. The DNR encourages the public to report suspected cases through its "Eyes in the Field" system or by phone.

Veterinarian Scott Larsen of the DNR Wildlife Division said that warmer, wetter weather in Michigan is creating more favorable conditions for the virus and its midge vectors. Rudolph noted that while deer may eventually develop greater resistance, current patterns suggest more frequent and severe outbreaks in the near term.