Wisconsin Deer Deaths Reach 900 as EHD Outbreak Intensifies in Southeast Region

Key points

• The Wisconsin DNR has received approximately 900 reports of dead deer linked to EHD, with the majority concentrated in Washington County.
• EHD is a viral disease spread by biting midges, causing high fevers, internal bleeding, and organ damage in white-tailed deer.
• The disease is not transmissible to humans; people are at no risk from handling infected deer or consuming venison.
• The DNR confirmed EHD in two deer in Washington County but is not conducting additional testing within the known outbreak area.
• Surviving deer develop antibodies, and the outbreak is expected to end after the first hard frost kills the transmitting insects.

Background

Wisconsin first detected EHD in 2002, with sporadic outbreaks occurring since, including a significant event in 2012 affecting eight counties. The state’s deer population has recently reached a record 1.89 million. Previous outbreaks, such as the one in Crawford County, saw fewer than 226 reported deaths in a single county, making the current surge in southeastern Wisconsin unprecedented in scale for the region.

How outlets are covering it

While all sources agree on the severity of the outbreak, they differ in their emphasis on the impact. WPR and USA Today highlight the statistical surge, noting that the current numbers far exceed previous records, with WPR specifically citing nearly 900 reports. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel focuses on the local logistical burden, detailing how the Village of Richfield had to shift from contractors to public works staff to dispose of approximately 90 carcasses. WISN provides a personal perspective, featuring a resident in West Bend who found four dead deer on her property in ten days. Regarding the cause, all outlets attribute the disease to midges, but WPR and USA Today note that drought conditions may have contributed to the spread by forcing deer to congregate near waterways where midges breed.

Why it matters

The outbreak has significant implications for local landowners and hunters, as the high mortality rate may result in fewer deer available for the upcoming hunting season. Additionally, the event highlights the potential for climate-related factors, such as drought and warmer temperatures, to expand the range of disease-carrying insects into northern states like Wisconsin.

What to watch

The DNR will continue to monitor reports from the public but will not pursue further testing within the current outbreak zone. Officials expect the outbreak to subside after the first hard frost, which will kill the midges responsible for transmission. Residents are encouraged to report any additional sick or dead deer to the DNR via their website, email, or phone to help track the disease's spread.