EHD in White-Tailed Deer: Supportive Treatments for Veterinarians and Ranch Owners

White-tailed deer are iconic to North America, but in recent years they’ve faced an increasing threat: Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD). While this disease has been around for decades, warmer weather patterns and expanding insect populations are contributing to more frequent and severe outbreaks.

What is Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) in White-Tailed Deer?

Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) is a viral disease in white-tailed deer spread by biting midges. It often leads to fever, swelling, ulcers, and sometimes sudden death. EHD is transmitted when tiny biting midges (Culicoides species) feed on an infected deer and then bite another susceptible deer. Once infected, deer can show signs within a week, and in severe cases death can occur rapidly. Because of its fast progression, EHD can devastate deer populations—especially in late summer and early fall when midge activity peaks.

EHD Symptoms in White-Tailed Deer

Veterinarians and ranch owners should watch for these common signs of EHD in white-tailed deer:

• Fever and lethargy
• Swelling of the head, neck, eyelids or tongue
• Ulcers or sores in the mouth
• Difficulty breathing
• Loss of appetite and weakness
• Sudden death in severe cases

Affected deer are often found near water sources, as fever drives them to seek relief. According to the University of Florida IFAS Extension, mortality can occur within days of infection, and outbreaks have been reported across many regions of the United States

Supportive Treatments for White-Tailed Deer with EHD

There is currently no cure or widely available vaccine for EHD in white-tailed deer. Veterinarians can play a critical role in helping captive deer survive infection through supportive care. Treatments aim to reduce inflammation, maintain strength, and prevent secondary infections that often complicate recovery.

Dexamethasone

Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid typically used to control inflammation and swelling, particularly around the head and neck. Reducing inflammation can help deer breathe more easily and improve comfort.

B-complex vitamins

These vitamins support energy metabolism and appetite. In sick deer that may stop eating, supplementation can help maintain strength and encourage recovery.

Vitamin A, D and E complex

These fat-soluble vitamins play key roles in immune function and tissue repair. Together, they can help strengthen the deer’s natural defenses while supporting skin and mucous membrane health.

Long-acting antibiotics

While EHD is a viral infection, secondary bacterial infections can also develop while the immune system is weakened by the virus. These infections often complicate recovery and increase the risk of mortality. Long-acting antibiotics can help control these secondary bacterial infections. 

• Draxxin® (tulathromycin): Provides broad-spectrum coverage with just one dose, making it especially useful in wildlife or large herds where repeated handling is stressful or impractical.
• Excede® (ceftiofur crystalline free acid): Another long-acting antibiotic effective against common bacterial infections, offering extended protection with fewer treatments.

These medications do not eliminate the virus itself, but they can stabilize infected white-tailed deer long enough for the immune system to respond. In managed herds, timely treatment may mean the difference between recovery and loss. 

The treatment options listed above are available through Mixlab with a valid prescription, ensuring veterinarians and ranch owners have reliable access to the treatments needed during EHD outbreaks.

Why EHD Matters

Beyond the loss of individual deer, EHD outbreaks can have lasting ecological and economic impacts. For ranch owners and wildlife managers, high mortality events mean fewer animals for hunting, breeding programs or conservation. For communities, white-tailed deer are not only culturally important but also play a role in maintaining ecological balance.

Partnering with Mixlab

At Mixlab, we’re here to support veterinarians and animal owners navigating EHD challenges. With a wide range of medications including dexamethasone, vitamins, and long-acting antibiotics, we’re committed to making sure animals get the care they need, quickly and reliably. Our compounded, branded and generic medications along with vitamins and supplements are available and ready-to-ship with free two-day shipping.

If you’re a veterinarian or wildlife caretaker looking to prepare for EHD season or treat infected deer, Mixlab can be your partner in ensuring you have the right treatments on hand.

Learn more about our solutions for wildlife or get in touch with our team to place an order today.