WISCONSIN (CBS 58) — An outbreak of epizootic hemorrhagic disease, or EHD, has been confirmed in wild deer in Washington County, with suspected cases also being reported across several southeastern Wisconsin counties.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources continues to track reports of potentially affected deer and is prioritizing testing in areas where the virus has not already been confirmed.

As of the latest update, the DNR has received reports involving approximately:

• 60 deer in Dodge County
• 10 deer in Milwaukee County
• 80 deer in Ozaukee County
• More than 1,000 deer in Washington County
• More than 360 deer in Waukesha County

Hemorrhagic disease is an acute and often fatal viral disease affecting white-tailed deer and other hoofed animals. It can be caused by either epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus or bluetongue virus.

In parts of the southern and western United States where hemorrhagic disease occurs more regularly, mortality rates tend to be lower. Wisconsin deer have less previous exposure to the viruses, meaning outbreaks can result in higher death rates.

Areas with dense deer populations may also experience greater mortality.

Signs of EHD can include excessive salivation, foaming around the nose and mouth, weakness and deer appearing unusually approachable by people.

Dead deer found in or near water can also be an indication of the disease. Infected deer can develop high fevers and often seek out water to cool themselves or drink.

The virus is spread by midges, which are small biting flies sometimes known as biting gnats or "no-see-ums."

EHD does not infect humans. According to the DNR, people cannot contract the virus by handling an infected deer, eating venison from an infected animal or being bitten by an infected midge.

Outbreaks generally occur between August and October before declining in late fall. The midges responsible for spreading the virus typically die following the first hard frost.

Although an outbreak can cause significant losses among deer in a specific area, research indicates affected populations can recover relatively quickly through natural reproduction.

The EHD virus does not survive in deer carcasses, but the DNR advises people to avoid handling dead wildlife whenever possible because other potentially harmful pathogens could be present.

DNR staff do not collect or dispose of deer suspected of dying from EHD. Anyone who needs to move or dispose of a carcass is advised to use basic protective equipment and follow proper hygiene practices.

The DNR says staff will continue monitoring Wisconsin's deer herd for signs of the disease.

Members of the public who find dead deer or observe unusual behavior are asked to report their observations to the DNR Wildlife Switchboard.