BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — The DEC wants New York State hunters to know that deer in the state are being affected by an unusual viral disease.
A number of deer have died from an outbreak of Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease, or EHD. It's a fatal virus to whitetail deer, and is caused by a tiny biting fly. It cannot be contracted by humans.
The DEC says deer infected with the disease my appear lame or dehydrated, and have a swollen head, neck, tongue or eyelids. They are frequently looking for water sources, and often found dead near water.
The DEC has gotten reports of about 750 dead deer, and EHD has been confirmed in parts of Dutchess, Greene, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Ulster, and Westchester counties. Officials say it may spread to other parts of the state until we have a widespread frost that kills the flies that are transmitting the virus.
The DEC is asking hunters to report any deer they see that may have died from EHD.
Here's the information on contacting the DEC office near you.
