Deer are dying across the mid-Atlantic from a virus transmitted by the ‘no-see-ums’

A viral outbreak affecting white-tailed deer populations has been reported across the Mid-Atlantic region, primarily attributed to a disease known as epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD). This infection is transmitted by tiny biting flies, commonly referred to as “no-see-ums.”

Wildlife officials in the Washington, D.C. area noted a deceased deer near Dulles International Airport late last month, prompting further investigation. Tissue samples confirmed that the deer had died from EHD, which can be fatal for infected deer. Reports of dead deer have also surfaced in wooded areas, meadows, and near streams in Maryland and Virginia.

The disease typically affects white-tailed deer between mid-August and October when the insect vectors are most active. In Maryland, officials have recorded 97 deer deaths across nine counties this year, particularly in Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Howard, Montgomery, and Prince George’s counties. Virginia wildlife agencies reported around 20 EHD-related deaths, down from a previous year total of approximately 80. The disease has also been noted in neighboring states such as Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

EHD symptoms include internal bleeding, respiratory distress, and swelling around the head. While the outbreak raises concerns for wildlife populations, it does not pose a risk to humans or household pets, though it can affect livestock. Residents who find deceased deer are advised not to handle them and to contact local wildlife agencies instead.