HARRISBURG, Pa. -  The Pennsylvania Game Commission is asking the public to report sick or dead deer to help monitor an outbreak of Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease. This viral illness has been confirmed in Northwestern Pennsylvania, including Mercer and Lawrence Counties.

EHD is a viral disease transmitted to deer through the bite of infected midges, small insects also known as “no-see-ums.” Symptoms of the disease include lethargy, fever, swollen face or neck, lameness, and respiratory distress.

The disease has been found in Liberty and Shenango Townships in Mercer County, and Slippery Rock Township in Lawrence County.

The disease has also been confirmed in Muddy Creek Township in Butler County, as well as Mill Creek Township in Erie County.

The Game Commission has also investigated reports of dead deer in southwestern and southeastern Pennsylvania, where test results are pending.

According to the Game Commission, EHD emerges in late summer and is a threat to deer until the first hard frost kills the midges. EHD can lead to high mortality rates in local deer populations.

The disease isn't a threat to elk, and it is not a threat to humans. However, EHD can infect domestic livestock. Reports of sick livestock should be directed to the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.

The Game Commission urges anyone who sees a sick or dead deer to report it by calling 1-833-742-9453. Reporting is important if several deer are found dead in the same area.

While there is no current treatment for EHD, local deer populations often recover within two to three years.