9-4 IAN West Nile

 The Idaho State Department of Agriculture recommends taking precautions to protect horses and mules, asses against the West Nile virus (WNV). Confirmed cases of West Nile in humans and horses in ten southern Idaho counties confirm the presence of West Nile-carrying mosquitos.  The first positive mosquito pools of 2012 were detected in mid-July and the first confirmed human case shortly afterward.  Three cases in horses have been confirmed in the past several days.  West Nile was first discovered in birds in 1999 in the New York City area.  Since then, the virus has spread westward and can be found throughout the country.  People and animals generally are infected through the bite of an infected mosquito.  Animals affected with West Nile virus cannot transmit the virus to another horse or human. 

ISDA veterinarian Dr. Scott Leibsle says The most common sign of West Nile virus in horses is:  “weakness, usually in the hindquarters. Weakness may be indicated by a widened stance, stumbling, leaning to one side and toe dragging. In extreme cases, paralysis and inability to stand may follow.  Fever sometimes is evident, as are depression and fearfulness.  Additionally, lip-smacking, chewing movements and fine muscle tremors may be noticed.