Whitetail deer are susceptible to a viral disease known as bluetongue. The virus is transmitted by biting midges small flies that are found near wet areas such as ponds and marshes. The disease is characterized by fever swelling of the head and neck and oral ulcerations. In severe cases bluetongue can lead to death. There is no specific treatment for the disease and it is generally fatal in deer. However there are some steps that can be taken to prevent the disease from spreading.
The best way to prevent bluetongue in whitetail deer is to avoid areas where the midges that transmit the virus are found. If you must go into an area where these insects are present wear long sleeves and pants to keep them from biting you. You can also treat your clothes with insect repellent. In addition avoid contact with sick deer as they can transmit the virus to you. If you come into contact with a sick deer wash your hands and clothes thoroughly with soap and water.
If you see a deer with bluetongue contact your local wildlife agency so that they can monitor the situation. Do not attempt to treat the deer yourself as there is no specific treatment for the disease.
Whitetail deer are a vital part of the ecosystem and their populations can be negatively impacted by diseases such as bluetongue. By taking steps to prevent the disease you can help protect these valuable animals.
What is bluetongue in whitetail deer?
Answer: Bluetongue is a virus that affects whitetail deer.
The virus is transmitted by biting insects and can cause severe illness and even death in deer.
What are the symptoms of bluetongue in whitetail deer?
Answer: The symptoms of bluetongue include fever lethargy loss of appetite and swollen blue tongue.
How is bluetongue transmitted?
Answer: Bluetongue is transmitted by biting insects such as midges and biting flies.
How can bluetongue be prevented?
Answer: There is no vaccine for bluetongue so the best way to prevent it is to reduce the populations of biting insects in areas where deer live.
What is the treatment for bluetongue?
Answer: There is no specific treatment for bluetongue so deer that become infected must be treated symptomatically.
Can humans get bluetongue?
Answer: No bluetongue is a virus that only affects deer.
How long does it take for symptoms of bluetongue to appear?
Answer: The incubation period for bluetongue is 2-14 days.
Is bluetongue contagious?
Answer: No bluetongue is not contagious.
What is the mortality rate for bluetongue?
Answer: The mortality rate for bluetongue is high and can be as high as 90%.
What time of year is bluetongue most common?
Answer: Bluetongue is most common in the summer and early fall.
In what parts of the country is bluetongue most common?
Answer: Bluetongue is most common in the northern and eastern United States.
How long does bluetongue last?
Answer: The duration of bluetongue varies but most deer will recover within 2-3 weeks.
What do deer with bluetongue need?
Answer: Deer with bluetongue need plenty of rest and should be provided with food and water.
How can I tell if a deer has bluetongue?
Answer: A deer with bluetongue will have a fever lethargy loss of appetite and a swollen blue tongue.
Should I call a vet if I think my deer has bluetongue?
Answer: Yes you should call a vet if you think your deer has bluetongue.
