Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks suspects that hemorrhagic disease (HD) is responsible for recent white-tailed deer deaths in the Eureka and Plains areas. These cases are suspect but have not yet been confirmed through lab testing.
Two common types of hemorrhagic disease are epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) and blue tongue. Both are viral diseases transmitted by biting midges and primarily affect white-tailed deer, though mule deer and other species can also be impacted. Outbreaks often occur in late summer and early fall and typically subside once a hard frost reduces midge activity.
FWP staff are monitoring the situation. It is not necessary for the public to report additional dead deer suspected of having HD. While the disease can cause significant losses in localized deer populations, outbreaks are usually short-lived and confined to certain areas.
Hemorrhagic diseases are not a risk to humans, and meat from animals that appear healthy at the time of harvest remains safe to eat when properly cooked. Hunters should avoid harvesting or consuming animals that appear sick.
FWP will continue to track the extent of the outbreak and provide updates as needed. For more information about HD in Montana, visit online.
Source: FWP
Photo: Pixabay
