DNR: 700+ reports of dead deer in Washington, Waukesha Counties amid virus outbreak
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is tracking Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease cases.
MADISON, Wis. —
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources said it has received more than 700 dead deer reports in Washington and Waukesha Counties amid a viral outbreak that experts said cannot be stopped.
According to a DNR news release sent in mid-August, Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease was detected in two dead deer near Richfield and West Bend in Washington County. “Many of the observations reported healthy-looking, dead deer in or near water on their properties,” the news release said.
Responding to questions from 12 News Tuesday, Wisconsin DNR said the agency is getting reports of EHD nearly every day.
“As of this morning, we had received reports of over 600 EHD suspect deer from Washington County and over 100 from Waukesha County,” the DNR said.
EHD spreads by midges, which are small flies. But experts said there is not anything that can be done to stop the disease from spreading.
“A frost will impact the midges and slow the spread, but it is unknown if the reports of dead deer will continue at the same level until that occurs,” the DNR told 12 News Tuesday.
EHD does not infect humans. Signs include excessive salivation, foaming around the nose and mouth, and appearing weak or approachable by humans.
To report sick or dead deer, report it to the DNR by using this link, by emailing DNRWildlifeSwitchboard@wisconsin.gov, or by calling 608-267-0866.