West Nile Virus
Since first being recognized in the U.S. in 1999, West Nile Virus (WNV) has posed a serious threat to horses. In the equine population, the virus is transmitted when a mosquito takes a blood meal from a bird infected with WNV, then feeds on a horse. While many horses exposed to WNV experience no signs of illness, the virus can cause inflamation of the brain and spinal cord. In some cases, especially in older horses, WNV can be fatal.
Here are five tips to reduce the risk of your horse contracting WNV.
- Vaccinate your horse. Sept. and Oct. are the months we have seen 90% of the cases of WNV. The vaccine works well and is safe for your horse, including pregnant horses.
- Eliminate standing water which are potential mosquito breeding sites.
- Thoroughly clean livestock watering troughs at least monthly.
- Keep your horse indoors during peak mosquito activity periods of dusk to dawn.
- Remove any birds, including chickens, located in or close to your stables.
