The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is considering reducing the number of deer-hunting permits it will issue this year as a viral disease continues to kill deer across the state.

The commission says epizootic hemorrhagic disease, or EHD, is believed to have killed more than 3,000 deer in Nebraska this year.

The commission will consider reductions in 2012 antlerless deer permits at its meeting on Oct. 26 in North Platte. If changes are approved, they will go into effect immediately. All permits purchased prior to any changes will remain valid.

EHD spreads from deer to deer by the bite of a small insect known as a midge. The disease causes hemorrhaging within the deer's body. It is not a threat to humans