BOISE, Idaho (CBS2) — The Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) confirmed a case of Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) in a white-tailed deer southeast of Lewiston. Two more animals are suspected of dying of EHD at the same location.
This is the first confirmed outbreak of the season in the Clearwater Region. Additional reports of deer with EHD were received near Kendrick and Potlatch.
EHD is a virus spread by biting midges that affects white-tailed deer. Sick animals often appear weak or disoriented and are frequently found near water sources where they seek relief from fever.
While the disease can cause significant die-offs in localized areas, it does not affect humans or pets and poses little risk to livestock. Mule deer can be affected, and elk can be exposed but are less likely to develop the severe form of the disease seen in white-tailed deer.
There is no treatment for wild deer with EHD, and no practical way to control the biting midges that spread the virus. Outbreaks typically subside with cooler, wetter weather or after the first hard frost, which kills the midges responsible for transmission.
The public may encounter dead or dying deer, particularly around creeks, ponds or other water sources. Common signs of illness include:
Labored breathingSwollen head or tongueExcessive drooling or foam at the mouthWeakness, disorientation or unwillingness to flee from people
Deer often die within 24–36 hours of showing symptoms, so animals may appear otherwise healthy but be found dead near water.
Deer that recover from an EHD infection are safe to eat, but animals with an active EHD infection should not be consumed. IDFG says hunting seasons remain unchanged and will continue to monitor the outbreak.
Residents who see sick or dead deer are encouraged to report them through IDFG’s Wildlife Health webpage.
For more information, contact the Idaho Fish and Game Clearwater Regional Office at (208) 799-5010.