A little-known virus that causes severe illness in cattle and fatal infections in white-tailed deer has been detected in only a handful of New York counties so far, according to state agricultural officials. While the disease, known as epizootic hemorrhagic disease, has not yet spread widely in the region, experts warn of growing concern as deer populations decline in other parts of the U.S. The virus is transmitted by biting midges, and its presence in livestock has prompted closer monitoring of herds in affected areas. Authorities emphasize that the risk to humans remains extremely low, though the potential impact on wildlife and agriculture could escalate if the virus takes hold.
Virus that sickens cows, kills deer still rare in New York state—for now Phys.org
