Lab tests tie deer deaths to virus in four Indiana counties

Tribune staff reports

Laboratory tests identified a deadly virus as the culprit responsible for a number of dead deer in four Hoosier counties.

Deer management biologist Chad Stewart said epizootic hemorrhagic disease was confirmed in samples collected from dead deer in LaGrange, Miami, Morgan and Sullivan counties.

They were among a widespread number of dead deer reported across the state, according to a news release from the state Department of Natural Resources.

So far, none has been found in Jackson County, although cases of the virus are suspected in neighboring Bartholomew, Brown, Jennings, Lawrence and Monroe counties.

“Our list is over 40 counties now where it has been reported or suspected in deer,” Stewart said.

Humans are not at risk for contracting hemorrhagic disease.

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