Tennessee Wildlife Agency Monitors Hemorrhagic Disease in Deer Across Eight Counties
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) is currently tracking the spread of hemorrhagic disease (HD) among local deer populations as the bow hunting season commences. This seasonal disease, while variable in severity from year to year, has been confirmed through laboratory testing in eight Tennessee counties.
According to TWRA, hemorrhagic disease can range from isolated cases to major outbreaks. Unlike chronic wasting disease, HD is not universally fatal and deer have the potential to survive infection.
Understanding Hemorrhagic Disease and Its Transmission
Hemorrhagic disease is caused by viruses transmitted by Culicoides midges, tiny biting flies that breed in mud near standing water. These insects serve as biological vectors, allowing the virus to spread rapidly during suitable climatic conditions. Periods of heavy rain in spring followed by dry, warm late summers create ideal environments for midge breeding, elevating the risk of disease transmission in deer.
Counties Affected by HD in Tennessee
TWRA has confirmed hemorrhagic disease cases through testing in the following counties:
- Franklin
- Giles
- Humphreys
- Lewis
- Shelby
- Sumner
- Wayne
- Williamson
The agency reports additional observations of sick or deceased deer showing signs consistent with HD, though not all cases have been laboratory confirmed.
Guidance for Reporting and Handling Affected Deer
The TWRA encourages the public to report sightings of sick or dead deer through their online portal at tn.gov/twra/sickdeer. Timely sample collection within 24 hours of death is critical for accurate laboratory diagnosis. TWRA staff may contact individuals for sample submission if viable specimens can be obtained.
Safety Concerns Regarding Venison Consumption
Current scientific evidence indicates that hemorrhagic disease viruses do not infect humans. The Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostics Laboratory noted in a 2024 report that although it is not advisable to consume venison from visibly ill deer, there is no documented risk of disease transmission to humans through properly harvested and handled venison from areas with HD activity.
Symptoms and Behavior of Infected Deer
Infected deer exhibit a range of symptoms including fatigue, respiratory distress, oral sores, swollen tongues, fever, and sloughing hooves often leading to lameness. Some infected individuals may show reduced fear and thin body condition. Notably, sick deer frequently gather near water sources, likely attempting to alleviate fever symptoms through immersion.
Fatality and Wildlife Implications
While hemorrhagic disease can be fatal, survivorship varies, and some deer recover. The cyclical nature of HD outbreaks often correlates with environmental factors influencing midge populations. Wildlife managers emphasize the importance of monitoring these patterns to inform deer population health and management strategies across affected regions.
Additional reporting and sources from: Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency tracking disease in deer: See which counties included
