Deer in Eaton, Jackson counties infected with sometimes

A viral disease transmitted by midges that can kill Michigan white-tailed deer has been reported in Eaton and Jackson counties, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources .

Epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) has been found in four white-tailed deer. Including Eaton and Jackson counties, the virus has been confirmed in Van Buren and Washtenaw counties, the DNR said in a Sept. 3 news release .

EHD is a viral, sometimes fatal, disease that affects white-tailed deer in late summer and early fall. Infected deer with EHD often seek water to lower their body temperature and rehydrate.

The disease is transmitted through the bite of an infected midge, or biting fly.

“In past years when we've confirmed EHD, it has typically affected only one or a few counties,” said Brent Rud