This disease is not new for Missouri deer and certainly nothing to be alarmed about. It is, however, something that should be reported to help prevent further spread of the disease.
“Clinical signs of hemorrhagic disease in deer vary but may include an unwillingness to move; difficulty breathing; and swelling of the head, neck, or tongue,” Batten explained. “Hemorrhagic disease can cause a high fever, prompting infected deer to seek out water sources. Deer that are sick may appear dazed, lethargic, and nonresponsive to the approach of people. Deer that die from hemorrhagic disease usually do so in a matter of days and are often found dead in or near water with no outward signs of illness.”
Source: Missouri Department of Conservation reports hemorrhagic disease in deer
If you suspect cases of hemorrhagic disease in Missouri deer, email WildlifeHealth@mdc.mo.gov.