Virus which causes EHD confirmed in three Wisconsin counties

MADISON — The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources confirmed cases of viruses that cause epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) in the counties of Chippewa, Jackson and Waukesha, according to a press release.

The announcement came around midday on Tuesday, where positive cases were reported to come from four deer: one in Chippewa, one in Waukesha and the other two in Jackson. In the press release, the DNR claims they were able to detect the disease “after landowners reported healthy-looking, dead deer near ponds on their property.”

The virus which causes EHD is said to be spread between deer by a type of small fly called midges, which are also referred to as biting gnats or no-see-ums. The virus does not infect humans, even if an individual were to handle an infected deer, eat venison from an infected deer or be bitten by infected midges.

In the press release, the DNR said that anyone who observes deer that appear to be displaying clinical signs of EHD or is found dead in or near water should contact their organization quickly. Clinical signs of the disease in deer include excessive salivation, foaming around the nose and mouth and a weak appearance and is approachable by humans. Infected deer may often lay in water to cool down or drink.

To report a sick or dead deer, email DNRWildlifeSwitchboard@wisconsin.gov or call 608-267-0866.