Bovine Tuberculosis Outbreak in the Upper Midwest

Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) and Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) aren’t the only diseases deer and deer hunters have to worry about. There are numerous others that affect whitetails each year. One commonly overlooked disease is bovine tuberculosis.

According to CBS News, a recent outbreak has occurred in a cattle herd in Alcona County, Michigan. The report also stated this is the 73rd time it’s happened in the state.

The good news is it hasn’t knowingly been transmitted to the local deer in that area — yet. That said, it’s highly contagious and can infect whitetails easily. It’s important not to eat deer that show signs of having this disease.

“Bovine tuberculosis can develop in the lungs, but it can also be found in the intestines and other parts of the body, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources,” the report stated. “The agency warns hunters to check for swollen or infected lymph nodes in the animal's head or lesions throughout the body. Deer with severe tuberculosis may have tan or yellow bumps lining the chest wall and in the lung tissue.”

Click here to read the full CBS News report.

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