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Officials suspect drought-induced illness causing deer deaths in Meadowbrook Park

September 7, 2022 10:12 AM
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Urbana Park District is working with Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) officials, and members of the UIUC Vet Med Wildlife Division to determine the cause of several deer deaths in Meadowbrook Park.

“Investigators believe the deer succumbed to Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD),” explained Derek Liebert, Superintendent of Planning and Operations at the park district. He continued, “IDNR already has had a positive test result for EHD in Vermillion County. EHD typically occurs in the late summer and early fall, especially during dry conditions, when small stagnant pools facilitate transmission between whitetail deer and the gnats/midges that carry the disease.”

EHD is not a danger to humans or pets. “EHD is only a danger to ruminant species like deer,” Liebert added.

EHD is reduced when rain reduces stagnant water pools or cold weather kills the midges.

People with questions can call Liebert at (217) 344-9583.

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