Disease Suspected in Cambridge-area Mule Deer

Two mule deer fawns found dead north of Cambridge recently probably died of a common viral infection. Additional deer in the area may be infected and Fish and Game is asking area hunters to report any sick or dead deer they find while in the field. Lab reports have not yet been completed on the two fawns, but the most likely cause of death is Epizootic Hemmoragic Disease or EHD. A virus similar to blue tongue, EHD is common in deer herds especially in southern states. The disease is cyclic in deer and causes increased morbidity and mortality when deer populations are high and a large proportion of the deer have not been previously exposed to the virus. "White-tailed deer are more prone to the disease than are mule deer," Fish and Game wildlife veterinarian Mark Drew noted. "And because of their weaker immune systems, fawns are more susceptible to the virus than are adult deer." If EHD is confirmed in the two deer, Drew expects additional mortality to occur. Clinical signs of EHD in deer include lethargy, bloody droppings, dehydration and mouth ulcerations. Infected animals tend to remain close to water and drink frequently. While the disease can be fatal to deer, it is not contagious to humans. "The virus poses no risk to humans and the meat from an animal infected with EHD is safe for consumption," Drew said. "However, deer that are extremely sick are not animals that hunters should consider harvesting." Fish and Game recommends that hunters take the following general precautions when dealing with any harvested big game species: avoid shooting obviously sick animals; wear rubber gloves when field dressing game; take excellent care of the meat from field to freezer; and cook the meat well before eating it. Hunters finding dead deer near the Cambridge area are asked to report their findings to Fish and Game's Nampa office at 465-8465.