Description
Pneumonia is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Pasteurella haemolytica or Pasteurella multocida and Mycoplasma ovipneumonia. The bacterium present depends on the species and the stage of development. Mycoplasma ovipneumonia is the primary cause of pneumonia in wild species. The bacterial infection is typically seen in wild sheep and deer species. In white-tailed deer, the bacterium affects juveniles the most but can also affect adults. Pneumonia in cervids has been reported throughout North America.
Transmission
Pneumonia can spread through contact with infected domestic animals or contact with the bacteria itself. It cannot spread to humans through contact with an infected animal.
Clinical Signs
Signs of infection are not outwardly present in most cases. Individuals infected with pneumonia will cough, wheeze, have shortness of breath, lethargy, and weakness. Internally, the infection will present itself through discoloration of the lungs, fluid buildup, and lungs sticking to the ribs. Most species that contract pneumonia will not survive for more than a few days.
Wildlife Management Implications
Pneumonia can cause illness in deer and localized deaths of the infected animal but does not affect entire populations often. The infection is also not widely reported in wild populations, so the full extent is not known. To help DNR better understand the extent of pneumonia in deer, please report it using our online sick or dead wildlife reporting tool.
Human Health Significance
Pneumonia in wildlife does not impact human health. Animals confirmed with pneumonia can be eaten if the infection is not active, and fluid is not found in the lungs. If the animal shows any sign of discoloration in or around the lungs, it is best to not eat it and discard it.