Illinois deer: EHD outbreak update

Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) – Illinois Update SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) today announced updated results of monitoring of deer mortality in the state attributed to Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD). Since an earlier update on September 6, many Illinois citizens have taken the time to make reports of sick, dead, and/or dying animals throughout the state. The IDNR Division of Wildlife Resources thanks those individuals who have taken time to provide information on EHD-probable deer mortality in the state. As of September 30, there were 2,043 deer reported as probable EHD deaths, with reports from 76 counties. The highest numbers were reported from Cook (326); Calhoun (181); Coles (138); Macon and Shelby (121). The attached color-coded map provides an indication of the disease intensity, by county. Hunters taking to the field in Illinois for archery deer hunting and the Oct. 6-7 Illinois Youth Firearm Deer Hunt need not be concerned about eating venison from animals that may have contracted EHD and survived. EHD has no impact on humans, pets, or livestock. Lab testing has isolated EHDV-6 from several Illinois deer from northwest Cook County. Results are still pending for other samples taken downstate. EHD has been found throughout the Midwest, including neighboring Missouri, Iowa, Wisconsin, Indiana, and Kentucky. Hunters and landowners who find sick or dead deer that they suspect may be related to EHD, especially in or near water, are asked to contact their nearest IDNR field office or regional office to report them. Discoveries of EHD-related deer mortality may also be reported to Tom Micetich at 309-543-3316, ext. 231; or email: tom.micetich@illinois.gov. Anyone reporting dead deer should include their name and contact phone number, as well as the county, number of dead deer, and specific location of the deer (distance/direction from the nearest town).