Oyster Radio: Epizootic hemorrhagic disease found in North Florida Deer

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission says that a viral disease has been found in some North Florida white-tailed deer.

Florida is the latest state to report the presence of epizootic hemorrhagic disease in its white-tailed deer herd.

This disease has been confirmed in two deer and suspected in at least 10 others from North Florida that were examined this year.

In addition to Florida, at least 12 other states are reporting EHD cases.

This is a disease that you typically see in late summer or the fall, and it often occurs after periods of drought.

EHD is an insect-borne disease, transmitted to deer by small biting flies known as midges or “no-see-ums.”

Deer infected with EHD may have pronounced swelling of the head, neck, and tongue, and often have large ulcers in the mouth.

Infected deer are often found near water and may be lethargic, lame and emaciated.

The disease can cause illness or death in individual deer but should disappear when freezing temperatures halt insect activity.

EHD cannot be transmitted to humans or pets; however, as a general rule, people should avoid consuming sick or unhealthy deer.

FWC says the good news is they don’t expect long-term impacts to Florida’s deer herd.

The FWC is asking people to report sightings of sick or dead deer.

You can make a report at the state’s chronic wasting disease hotline number at 866-293-9282.

Oyster Radio