Hemorrhagic disease challenges Missouri deer hunters

Missouri wildlife officials report outbreaks of hemorrhagic disease in white-tailed deer this summer, caused by Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease virus and bluetongue virus spread by biting midges. There is no cure or vaccine; outbreaks typically peak July–October, and public reports help track spread and deer numbers. While the disease can cause rapid deer deaths, the overall deer population generally recovers within a few years.