Two Horses Infected With West Nile Virus

Two Horses Infected With West Nile Virus

Last week two horses — one in Boulder County and another in Alamosa County — were diagnosed with West Nile Virus which are the first confirmed cases of the year in Colorado. Field Reporter Greg Martin shares more about symptoms
Martin: “Infected horses may display symptoms including head tilt, muscle tremors, stumbling, lack of coordination, weakness of the limbs or partial paralysis. The clinical signs of WNV are consistent with other important neurological diseases such as equine encephalitis, rabies, and equine herpes virus; therefore it is important to work with your veterinarian to get an accurate diagnosis through laboratory testing. Horse owners should also consult their private practicing veterinarian to determine an appropriate disease prevention plan for their horses.”
Thanks, Greg. Vaccines are a very effective prevention tool. Horses that have been vaccinated in past years need an annual booster shot. However, if an owner did not vaccinate their animal in previous years, the horse will need the two-shot vaccination series within a three to six week period.
Another important element to consider is reducing the mosquito populations and their possible breeding areas. Remove stagnant water sources, keeping animals inside during high mosquito activity times — typically early in the morning and in the evening and using mosquito repellent.

 

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