Status of epizootic hemorrhagic disease in Kansas

The attached map shows where deer have been tested and the status of epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) in Kansas. EHD is a hemorrhagic disease caused by a virus and spread by the bite of a midge or small fly, usually during the late summer or early fall, when the midge becomes active.

This virus is not transmissible to humans. The virus is not known to be transmissible from an infected deer to other deer through individual contact.

There are several forms of EHD. Some forms of EHD kill deer quickly while others simply make the deer sick for a while before recovering. The virus can lead to high fever, causing infected deer to seek water to cool off. Dead deer usually are found in or near water. In most cases, infected deer are in good body condition because the disease usually runs its course and kills the animal quickly. EHD is not a threat to humans.

          The public should report any sick deer or deer that are acting abnormal to their local Natural Resource Officer or Regional Office. A listing of the 5 KDWPT Regional Offices is available online athttp://www.kdwpt.state.ks.us/news/Services/Law-Enforcement/Who-do-I-call.