LEWISTON, ID – The Idaho Department of Fish and Game has confirmed a case of Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) in a white-tailed deer in Game Management Unit 11, southeast of Lewiston. Two additional animals are suspected of dying of the disease at the same location.
This is the first confirmed outbreak of the season in the Clearwater Region. Fish and Game has also received reports of deer showing symptoms consistent with EHD in Unit 8A near Kendrick and Unit 8 near Potlatch.
EHD is a virus spread by biting midges, also known as no-see-ums. It primarily affects white-tailed deer, which may appear weak, disoriented, or be found near water sources as they seek relief from fever. The disease can cause significant localized die-offs but does not affect humans or pets and poses little risk to livestock. Mule deer can also be affected, while elk are less likely to develop severe illness.
There is no treatment for wild deer with EHD, and no practical method to control the midges that spread the virus. Outbreaks usually subside with cooler, wetter weather or after the first hard frost, which kills the insects responsible for transmission.
Members of the public may encounter dead or dying deer near creeks, ponds, or other water sources during the outbreak. Signs of infection include labored breathing, swelling of the head or tongue, excessive drooling or foam at the mouth, weakness, disorientation, and reluctance to flee from people. Deer often die within 24 to 36 hours of showing symptoms and may appear healthy shortly before death.
Fish and Game advises hunters that deer recovering from EHD are safe to eat, but animals actively infected should not be consumed. Hunting seasons remain unchanged, though officials will continue to monitor the outbreak.
EHD outbreaks have previously occurred in the Clearwater Region, most notably in 2003 and 2021. While localized losses can be significant, white-tailed deer populations typically recover quickly.
Residents who observe sick or dead deer are encouraged to report them through Fish and Game’s Wildlife Health webpage at idfg.idaho.gov/species/whl/report