Guidance on Notifiable Diseases in Deer Management

Within the realm of wildlife conservation and management, maintaining the health and wellness of deer populations is paramount. A crucial aspect of this endeavour entails the prompt identification and reporting of notifiable diseases that may afflict deer. 

Understanding Notifiable Diseases:

Notifiable diseases are ailments with significant implications not only for the health of animal populations but also for public health and the broader economy. They are termed 'notifiable' due to the mandatory requirement of reporting any suspected or confirmed cases to relevant authorities. This ensures a coordinated and effective response to control and mitigate the spread of the disease.

Common notifiable diseases in deer include, but are not limited to:

  • Foot and Mouth Disease: A highly contagious viral disease affecting cloven-hoofed animals, characterised by fever and blister-like sores on the mouth and feet.
  • Tuberculosis (TB): A bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs but can also impact other parts of the body.
  • Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD): A prion disease affecting deer, elk, and moose, characterised by weight loss leading to death.

Reporting Channels for Notifiable Diseases:

If you come across a deer or a group of deer that you suspect may be afflicted with a notifiable disease, it's imperative to report it to the relevant authorities promptly. Below are the contact details for reporting notifiable diseases in deer across the UK:

In England:

In Scotland:

In Wales:

In Northern Ireland: