The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has confirmed the first cases of epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) in deer for 2025, detected in Eaton, Jackson, Van Buren, and Washtenaw counties. EHD, a viral disease transmitted by biting midges, poses risks to local deer populations, although the DNR does not anticipate widespread declines in numbers.
As the warm summer conditions that favor midge proliferation are noted, the DNR monitors and tracks outbreaks to assess their impact on deer populations. Hunters play a crucial role this fall; their observations can help in reporting sick or dead deer, contributing to case tracking and recovery efforts. Reporting suspected EHD cases is vital for understanding the scope of the issue and facilitating population assessments.
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