The Idaho Department of Fish and Game has discovered the presence of Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease, commonly known as EHD, and has determined it to be the cause of death for as many as 30 deer in a small area of Unit 8 east of Moscow.

Jay Crenshaw, Regional Wildlife Manager with the IDFG Clearwater office says the cases represent the first outbreak in the region in five years.

Jay Crenshaw, Regional Wildlife Manager, Idaho Fish & Game

With several units open to hunting already, the department is advising hunters to avoid harvesting any animal that is behaving oddly.

Crenshaw continues

The disease, which is spread by gnats is not infectious to humans. Officials say the public should expect more cases until the region receives a hard freeze that should slow the spread of EHD.