Michigan DNR Issues Warning to Deer Hunters
A viral disease that can kill white-tailed deer has been detected in several southern Michigan counties, according to the Department of Natural Resources.
Deadly Deer Virus Confirmed in Michigan
Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease, better known as EHD, has been confirmed in four deer found in Eaton, Jackson, Van Buren, and Washtenaw counties, the DNR said in a Sept. 3 news release. The disease, which is spread by tiny biting midges, typically strikes in late summer and early fall.
Deer that are infected with EHD often appear lethargic and disoriented, sometimes showing swelling of the head, neck, or eyelids. Other visible signs include bloody discharge from the nose or mouth and a swollen or bluish tongue. Infected animals frequently seek out water as they try to cool down and rehydrate.
Safety for Hunters and the Public
The DNR notes that while EHD is often fatal, it is not contagious from deer to deer, and there is no evidence that humans, pets, or other wildlife can contract the virus. Hunters are advised not to eat venison from animals that look visibly sick, but the agency says healthy deer harvested in affected areas are still safe for consumption.
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Past outbreaks of EHD in Michigan have varied in scope. Some years, cases are isolated to a few counties, while larger outbreaks have spread to a dozen or more. In 2012, as many as 30 counties were impacted. Weather conditions play a role—wet springs followed by hot, dry summers often make outbreaks worse. The first frost typically kills off the midge population and ends transmission.
At-a-Glance: Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease in Michigan
- Counties affected: Eaton, Jackson, Van Buren, Washtenaw
- Cause: Viral disease spread by biting midges (tiny flies)
- When it appears: Late summer through early fall
- Symptoms in deer: Lethargy, disorientation, lameness, bloody nose/mouth, swollen or blue tongue, swelling of head/neck/eyelids
- Risk to humans/pets: None. Not contagious to people, pets, or other wildlife
- Venison safety: Do not eat visibly sick deer; healthy deer from affected areas are safe
- Seasonal end: First frost kills off midges, stopping transmission
- Population impact: No significant long-term effect; deer that survive gain immunity
- What to do: Report suspected sick or dead deer via the DNR’s Eyes in the Field system
Officials emphasize that while EHD can be devastating locally, it has not been shown to cause long-term damage to Michigan’s overall deer population. Deer that survive the disease develop immunity, and outbreaks rarely reappear in the same area two years in a row.
Reporting Sick or Dead Deer
The DNR asks residents who spot sick or dead deer to file a report through its Eyes in the Field online system so biologists can continue to monitor the spread of the disease.
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