DNR Confirms EHD in Calhoun County Deer

Calhoun County is among 15 Michigan counties where the Michigan Department of Natural Resources has confirmed deer mortality linked to epizootic hemorrhagic disease, or EHD, in 2026.

The DNR’s current township-level map of 2026 EHD reports covers reports received from August 1st through October 16th, 2026.

The map helps residents see where reports have been concentrated, but it is not a precise count of every deer death and does not represent a complete assessment of the outbreak.

EHD is a viral disease spread by biting midges in the genus Culicoides.

It is not transmitted directly from one deer to another, and outbreaks generally subside after a hard frost kills the midges.

The DNR confirmed Michigan’s first 2026 EHD cases on September 9th.

Signs may include weakness, disorientation, high fever, swelling, bleeding, loss of fear of people and an unusual desire to remain near water.

Residents who find a sick or recently dead deer should report it through the DNR’s Eyes in the Field reporting form and include an exact location and photos when possible.

Prompt reports matter because a useful laboratory sample may need to be collected within eight to 16 hours after death.

The DNR says EHD does not affect people or pets, and venison from an otherwise healthy deer remains safe to eat.

Hunters should still avoid consuming any animal that appears sick, and they should follow normal field-dressing and food-safety practices in the DNR’s Michigan hunting resources.

There is no treatment or practical population-wide control for EHD in wild deer.

Although local losses can be severe, outbreaks are usually limited geographically and affected deer populations can recover over time.

Hunters can also review the state’s Calhoun County deer management unit information before heading afield.

What is EHD?

EHD is a viral disease of deer spread by biting midges, not by direct deer-to-deer contact.

Is EHD dangerous to people or pets?

No. The DNR says people and pets are not affected, and meat from a healthy deer is safe to eat, though visibly sick animals should not be consumed.

What should Calhoun County residents do?

Report sick or recently dead deer through the DNR’s Eyes in the Field form, including the location and photos when possible.