Epizootic haemorrhagic disease (EHD) is a notifiable viral disease. It mainly affects deer, cattle, and other ruminants (including goats and sheep).
There has never been a reported case of epizootic haemorrhagic disease in Great Britain, but outbreaks of the disease have been reported in southern Europe
EHD does not affect humans, however, it can have a significant impact on trade.
Suspicion and confirmation
Contact your local Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) office immediately at 0300 303 8268, if you suspect epizootic haemorrhagic disease.
APHA vets will investigate suspected cases.
Clinical signs
Clinical signs are only usually seen with severe infection. These include:
- fever
- weakness
- lack of appetite
- increased salivation (drooling)
- bleeding
- swollen red skin near the hooves
- swollen lining of the mouth
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- mouth ulcers
In some cases, there are no obvious clinical signs that an animal is infected.
Transmission and prevention
Infection with EHD typically happens when midges carrying the disease, bite susceptible animals. The weather (especially temperature and wind direction) affects how the disease can spread.
You can help prevent the spread of EHD by practising good biosecurity on your premises.