Michigan confirms first deer EHD cases of 2025 in four counties – MLive.com

Key Takeaways:

• Michigan’s first EHD cases of 2025 mark a significant development for wildlife health.
• Four southern counties were confirmed to have infected deer.
• Multiple local outlets, including MLive.com and WZZM13, reported the story.
• State wildlife authorities emphasize continued monitoring.
• The discovery could have implications for Michigan’s hunting season.

Introduction

Michigan’s wildlife authorities have confirmed the state’s first cases of epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) in 2025. According to reporting by MLive.com and several other media sources, four southern counties have documented instances of infected deer, capturing the attention of both local residents and the statewide hunting community.

The Discovery of the 2025 Cases

Local coverage from MLive.com indicates that these initial cases were confirmed relatively early in the season. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has identified epizootic hemorrhagic disease in multiple deer, suggesting that the outbreak is contained to four counties in the southern region.

Four Counties Affected

While exact county names are not specified in all reports, multiple outlets, including WZZM13.com and The Detroit News, confirm that the affected areas are located in the southern part of the state. This marks the first time EHD has been detected in Michigan in 2025, a point highlighted by The Detroit News, which referred to them as “the state’s first 4 cases of deer hemorrhagic disease this year.”

Regional and Media Reactions

Coverage by The Spokesman-Review and WSBT also reinforces the significance of these findings, noting that the disease has been identified southeast of Lewiston and in additional southern counties. These confirmations have led state officials to emphasize vigilance and monitoring among residents, especially those involved in hunting and wildlife observation.

Looking Ahead

Current reports do not outline specific next steps, but experts caution that EHD can pose a serious threat to local deer populations if left unchecked. For now, wildlife officials encourage continued cooperation and reporting of any additional cases to help manage the disease’s spread. Residents and hunters are urged to take note of local guidelines as they prepare for the upcoming hunting season.