CHARLESTON — Cases of hemorrhagic disease have been confirmed in deer across five West Virginia counties, but state wildlife officials remind the public that the seasonal illness is not dangerous to people and does not pose a long-term threat to deer populations.
The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources announced in late August that cases of the viral disease, often called HD, have been found in Harrison, Jackson, Pleasants, Ritchie and Wood counties. Being in close proximity, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources also has confirmed reports of outbreaks.
“While seeing sick or dead deer may be concerning, we want to assure the public that HD is a natural, seasonal disease that occurs in deer populations,” WVDNR Director Brett McMillion said in a press release. “These outbreaks should not discourage hunters from enjoying West Virginia’s fall hunting opportunities.”
The disease, spread by biting midges, typically appears in late summer and early fall and decreases after the first hard frost. WVDNR said it has received about 150 public reports of deer suspected of having HD this season.
Although HD can be fatal to some deer, many survive. Officials emphasized that the disease does not infect humans or household pets, nor is it spread from deer to deer or by carcasses. Venison from healthy deer that have recovered from HD poses no health risk, the agency said.
WVDNR noted the disease should not be confused with chronic wasting disease, which has long-term impacts on deer and is managed under special regulations in the state.
Residents who see sick or dead deer are encouraged to report the sighting to their local WVDNR district office.Contact information is available at WVdnr.gov/contact.
