DWR reports numerous suspected cases of deer with hemorrhagic disease in Virginia
Published: September 1, 2026 at 12:42 PM
The Virginia Department of Wildlife Rerts of “sporadic deer mortalities consistent with hemorrhagic disease (HD).”
HD is caused by a group of related viruses and is often transmitted by biting gnats or midges. Cases of HD are usually found as a “deceased deer in good body condition found floating in a pond or creek,” as it is common for deer with the disease to seek a waterswollen head and neck, difficulty breathing, and “significant lameness.”
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HD is more common in the Southeastern U.S., specifically east of the Blue Ridge. Localized outbreaks can result in a temporary decrease in deer population, although it usually can rebound within a few years
The DWR said the disease does not pose a threat to humans or domestic pets, but ruminant livestock can contract the viruses
While humans are not at risk from handling or eating venison from deer infected with the virus, it is still advised that you do nothandle or eat deer that act or look sick
There are currently no preventative measures to control HD. However, outbreaks will often end with the onset of cold weather
You can read more about hemorrhagic disease on the DWR website here
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