Hemorrhagic Disease Increasing Among Deer in West Virginia
GHENT, WV – The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources reports a rise in cases of hemorrhagic disease (HD) affecting local deer populations. This viral illness, transmitted by biting midges, is showing increased prevalence across the state.
Wildlife Disease Specialist Ethan Barton highlights that the Epizootic form of hemorrhagic disease is the one most frequently observed in the region.
Understanding the Disease Impact
HD attacks the vascular system of whitetail deer by multiplying within their blood vessels. When the virus escapes these vessels, it causes vascular weakening and localized hemorrhaging, often leading to mortality.
According to Barton, only about 10 to 15 percent of West Virginia’s whitetail deer develop antibodies capable of combating the virus, contributing to higher mortality rates in the population.
Species and Transmission Details
- HD is specific to ruminants, which include animals like deer, cattle, and sheep.
- In West Virginia, whitetail deer are the most affected species.
- The disease does not transmit to humans, pets, or other companion animals.
Barton emphasizes that even the meat from a deer that has survived HD is safe for human consumption since the virus cannot infect humans.
Impact on Deer Populations
Though HD causes periodic die-offs, experts like Barton expect no significant long-term effects on West Virginia’s deer populations.
The disease’s cyclical outbreaks and the partial immunity in some individuals help maintain population resilience over time.
Additional Considerations
There is currently no practical method to determine if a deer has previously contracted and recovered from hemorrhagic disease in the wild.
This ongoing monitoring by wildlife authorities serves as a critical component in understanding disease dynamics and managing deer health across Mountain State habitats.
Additional reporting and sources from: Hemorrhagic disease occurring more often with deer in the Mountain State
