Deadly deer disease outbreak in Virginia

RICHMOND, Va. ( WFXR ) -- The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources has reported an outbreak of Deer Hemorrhagic Disease in the Commonwealth. The disease poses no threat to humans but is deadly to deer.

Deer with the disease are often found dead near or in water. The disease causes high fever and dehydration so affected animals go to water sources to cool down and drink.

Deer Hemorrhagic Disease is spread by gnat and midge bites. Once the weather cools down and kills off those insects, the disease often goes away.

There is not a cure for the disease, though knowing where it is affecting animals can help wildlife manager to track the disease.