The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is asking for help from the public in finding deer that could be affected by Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease, or EHD. After a deer that had died from the disease was found in Wales Township in St. Clair County, the DNR is on alert for EHD. Over 14,000 deer were taken out by the disease in 2012.
EHD is circulating in the area, with cases found in St. Clair, Oakland, Macomb, and Shiawassee counties. Reports have been coming in of 150 likely cases, while six have been confirmed so far.
Biting flies are the culprit for transmitting EHD. The DNR says that there is no evidence that humans can contract the disease.
Deer with a severe infection of EHD lose their fear of humans, lose their appetite, and may seek bodies of water to try to lower their body temperatures.
Tom Cooley, DNR wildlife pathologist said, “We are asking for hunters to look around as they hit the field this fall to let us know if they find dead deer, especially any near water.”
Anyone who discovers dead deer should report it through the DNR’s Eyes in the Field reporting form or call the closest DNR Customer Service Center.
Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland
