Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease Confirmed as Cause of Deer Mortality in Grand Forks
Authorities have verified that epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) was responsible for the deaths of nearly 100 white-tailed deer discovered in the Grand Forks area this past September.
The Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship issued a statement confirming that testing conducted by the Province’s Animal Health Centre identified EHD as the culprit behind the sudden increase in deer fatalities initially reported in mid-September.
Local biologists, working with the Grand Forks Wildlife Association, actively engaged the public to report dead deer sightings and collected tissue samples to facilitate diagnosis.
Context and Biological Impact of EHD
EHD is a viral disease affecting several wild ungulates, including white-tailed deer, mule deer, and bighorn sheep. The virus is transmitted primarily through biting midges (Culicoides spp.), and infections often result in rapid internal hemorrhaging and death.
While the current mortality event is notable, experts emphasize that EHD outbreaks are natural occurrences in deer populations, typically emerging in warmer months and predominantly ending with the arrival of cooler, wetter weather or frost.
Current Situation and Public Advisory
By October 1, approximately 100 deer carcasses had been documented under unexplained circumstances. The Ministry reiterated that there is no evidence of EHD posing any risk to humans, and no human cases have been reported.
Nonetheless, health authorities including Health Canada and the World Health Organization advise against consuming meat from animals suspected to be infected with EHD to avoid any unknown health risks.
Community Involvement and Ongoing Management Efforts
Wildlife managers underscore the importance of public participation in disease monitoring. Citizens are encouraged to report any sightings of sick or weakened wildlife displaying symptoms such as:
- Weight loss
- Excessive drooling
- Poor coordination or staggering
- General signs of poor health without apparent cause
Reports can be made at any time via the Report All Poachers and Polluters Line: 1 877 952-7277.
To alleviate public concern regarding carcass disposal, Grand Forks Wildlife Association president Jeff Gailey has initiated a contract to remove dead deer. Residents can contact him directly at 250 442-9637 to arrange animal removal within the region.
Link to Previous Disease Events in the Region
In the summer and fall of 2021, the region experienced a significant bluetongue virus outbreak, impacting California Mountain Sheep and urban deer populations. While bluetongue and EHD are distinct viral diseases, both are transmitted by biting midges and cause deadly internal hemorrhaging, highlighting the vulnerability of local ungulates to vector-borne viruses during warmer periods.
Additional reporting and sources from: Tests confirm EHD cause of deer deaths in Grand Forks – Nanaimo News Bulletin
