Hemorrhagic Disease (HD), spread by small biting gnats, has infected hundreds of deer across Kentucky this summer.
HD is caused by either the epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus (EHDV) or the bluetongue disease virus (BTV). Both viruses are transmitted through tiny biting midges—commonly called gnats or “no see-ums.” These insects thrive during summers with heavy early rainfall followed by dry weather.
Officials clarified that Hemorrhagic Disease is not the same as Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD). So far, only one wild deer in Kentucky has tested positive for CWD, and monitoring continues.
In September, the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources released updated numbers for this year’s HD cases, which typically occur annually.
As of September 22:
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553 reports across 94 counties
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1,074 deer reported sick or dead
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32 samples submitted (19 positive, 11 pending)
Symptoms of Hemorrhagic Disease
Many infected deer show few or no visible symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, they may develop:
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Fever and depression
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Trouble breathing or walking
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Swelling of the head, neck, tongue, or eyes
Deer generally show symptoms within a week of infection and often die within 8–36 hours after signs appear.
How the Disease Spreads
Both EHDV and BTV are spread by Culicoides midges, small biting flies even smaller than mosquitoes.
Diagnosing HD
Diagnosis is based on symptoms and confirmed through molecular testing of tissues or blood from suspected cases.
Treatment Options
Unfortunately, there is no treatment for HD in wild deer populations.
Risks to People and Other Animals
There’s no evidence that HD viruses infect humans. While midges can bite cattle, sheep, or dogs, transmission from deer to livestock or pets has not been reported. Elk can also contract HD but are generally less susceptible than white-tailed deer.
Prevention
Insect control can help manage HD among captive or domestic animals, but it’s nearly impossible to apply to wild populations. Also, using drugs on free-ranging wildlife is prohibited to avoid harming other species or people who consume game meat.
What to Do if You Find an Infected Deer
If you see a sick or dead deer, you’re encouraged to report it online. In some cases, a biologist may contact you to collect samples for testing. Even reports without samples help wildlife officials monitor and understand the spread of the disease.
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