Overview

• Ohio wildlife officials confirmed Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease in Hamilton, Clermont, Highland and Clark counties, with rapid deer deaths reported.
• The Pennsylvania Game Commission confirmed cases in Mercer and Lawrence counties, with additional confirmations in Butler and Erie counties and further tests pending elsewhere in the state.
• Hunters and residents are urged to report sick or dead deer to help track the outbreak, with Pennsylvania providing a hotline at 1-833-742-9453.
• The virus is spread by tiny biting midges and can cause lethargy, fever, facial swelling, lameness and breathing distress, often drawing sick deer to water before they die.
• Officials say there is no risk to humans or common pets, though domestic livestock can be infected, and transmission typically subsides after the first hard frost.