Posted by Moosetrack Megan on September 18, 2025Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks suspects that hemorrhagic disease (HD) is responsible for recent white-tailed deer deaths in the Eureka and Plains areas. Two common types of hemorrhagic disease are epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) and blue tongue. Both are viral diseases transmitted by biting midges and primarily affect white-tailed deer, though mule deer and other species can also be impacted. While the disease can cause significant losses in localized deer populations, outbreaks are usually short-lived and confined to certain areas. Hemorrhagic diseases are not a risk to humans, and meat from animals that appear healthy at the time of harvest remains safe to eat when properly cooked.