Brookings, S.D. - Cases of Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) are being reported in South Dakota cattle herds as well as in white-tailed deer. Russ Daly answers frequently asked questions on the disease and its origins; Daly is the SDSU Extension Veterinarian and Associate Professor in the Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, South Dakota State University.

Q. What is EHD?
A. EHD is a viral disease that has long been recognized as perhaps the most important infectious disease of white-tailed deer. In some years, including 2012, significant death losses in deer due to EHD are reported. Mule deer, antelope, and other deer species can also become affected, but usually not to as severe an extent as are white-tailed deer. Cattle can become affected uncommonly, but clinical illness is very rare in other species.

Q. What are the signs of EHD in deer?
A. Usually the disease in deer develops so quickly that death losses are the only signs noted. If observed, affected deer may show signs of excessive salivation and nasal discharge, sometimes bloody in nature. Weakness and difficult breathing also are common. Hemorrhages throughout the entire body are often noted in

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