Epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus, commonly known as EHDV, is a viral pathogen that affects hoofed animals such as deer, elk, and cattle. It belongs to the genus Orbivirus within the family Reoviridae. EHDV primarily spreads through the bites of certain species of Culicoides biting midges, which act as vectors for the virus.
EHDV causes epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD), a highly contagious and often fatal illness in deer and related species. The virus targets the animal's vascular system, leading to extensive internal bleeding and damage to organs such as the lungs and liver. Symptoms of EHD in deer include a high fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, swollen tongue, and oral erosions.
EHDV is most prevalent in temperate and tropical regions worldwide. Outbreaks of the disease tend to occur during the late summer and early autumn when biting midge populations are at their peak. While EHDV primarily affects wild ruminants, it can also infect domesticated livestock such as cattle, causing bluetongue-like symptoms.
To control the spread of EHDV, surveillance and monitoring of deer populations are essential. There are no specific treatments for EHD in deer, and infected animals often die within 7-10 days. However, some wildlife management strategies, such as providing supplemental feed and reducing deer population densities, can help mitigate the impact of the disease.
Overall, epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus is a significant concern for wildlife managers, as it can cause widespread mortality in deer populations, impacting hunting and conservation efforts.
