LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission says a viral disease is killing deer along the Platte River and possibly over a much wider area.

Epizootic hemorrhagic disease spreads from deer to deer by the bite of a small insect known as a midge.

The disease causes hemorrhaging within the body. A high fever may result, causing the deer to seek water. That’s why deer killed by the disease usually are found in or near water.

The deer may show bleeding from body openings.

The disease is not a threat to humans.

The commission wants people to report to their nearest Game and Parks office any deer deaths that may be attributed to this disease.