HARRISBURG — Dr. Walter Cottrell, Pennsylvania Game Commission wildlife veterinarian, announced that epizootic hemorrhagic disease, or EHD, has been confirmed as the cause of death for two deer in Beaver County. The agency is waiting for results from samples collected from deer in Cambria and Westmoreland counties; Cottrell noted that it is likely the results will confirm EHD as well.

Deer mortalities due to EHD virus have been confirmed in 15 states this year.

“There are no management actions or practices to prevent or limit mortality caused by EHD. Fortunately, EHD should be curtailed with the first hard frost, which will kill the midges that are spreading the disease. EHD is a seasonal disease and the affected local deer herd can rebound quickly,” Cottrell said.

EHD, one of the most common diseases among white-tailed deer in the United States, is contracted by the bite of insects called “midges.” The virus usually kills the animal within five to 10 days, and is not spread directly from deer to deer. While EHD is not infectious to humans, deer displaying severe symptoms of EHD may not be suitable for consumption.