LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) said confirmed the state’s worst deer disease outbreak in twelve years after cases surfaced in 11 southwest counties.

Since last month, the DNR Wildlife Health Section has confirmed epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) in the wild deer population across Barry, Berrien, Branch, Calhoun, Cass, Hillsdale, Kalamazoo, Kent, Ottawa, St. Joseph and Van Buren Counties.

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Officials say EHD is a common viral disease that affects white-tailed deer; it, is transmitted through the bite of an infected midge, or biting fly. Outbreaks of EHD typically occur in late summer and early fall but stop once the first frost kills the midge population.

Infected deer exhibit can experience loss of appetite, reduced fear of humans, weakness, excessive salivation, rapid pulse, increased respiration and fever. They may also seek out water to cool their elevated body temperatures. In severe cases, the disease leads to unconsciousness and death.

Any concerns can be reported here.