Potential for EHD Outbreak in Deer this Season

"Conditions are ideal for the outbreak of Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease in deer in the southern part of the province this year," warns LFGA member, Jennifer de Jager, who has an interest in wildlife diseases. "I've talked with other hunters past years and heard of suspected Bluetongue (the viral equivalent in cattle) deaths of whitetails around the Milk River region," says de Jager. However, neither Sustainable Resources Development nor Alberta Fish and Wildlife have had any reported cases in this region.
Multiple U.S. states are experiencing outbreaks of EHD in the last couple of weeks. Heat and drought conditions have been ideal for the biting flies that cause EHD this year. There is potential for an EHD outbreak to influence cattle and sheep populations. Livestock owners who suspect Hemorrhagic or Bluetongue disease are urged to seek veterinary assistance or report dying/dead deer to Fish & Wildlife.
Deer with the insect-borne disease come down with high fevers and seek out water immediately. They often have pronounced swelling of the head, tongue, neck and eyelids and may have trouble breathing. Signs of the disease develop within 7 days of infection. Deer with the more virulent strain experience internal bleeding and often bleed from their mouths and anuses. Death often occurs one to 3 days after symptoms emerge. Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease tends to affect whitetail populations more than mule deer.
Approximately two-thirds of infected deer will survive, and once they've had the disease they develop a natural immunity that prevents recurrence. Recovering deer may have split and layered-looking hooves. These deer are safe for human consumption, but it is advised to field dress animals quickly to prevent bacterial build up.
<http://www.srd.gov.ab.ca/> Government of Alberta
Kim Morton, Senior Wildlife Biologist, Alberta Fish & Wildlife, encourages all sportsmen to report any observations of wildlife exhibiting abnormal signs (i.e. growths, lumps) or peculiar behaviour (i.e. walking in circles) to the local Fish & Wildlife office at 381-5266.