The Ohio Department of Agriculture recently confirmed the first positive cases of West Nile Virus in Ohio horses for 2018.
Two cases in Northeast Ohio have been confirmed and the animals had not been vaccinated. The spread of West Nile Virus in horses is preventable with proper vaccination and horse owners are urged to ensure their animal’s vaccine and boosters are up to date.
West Nile Virus is transmitted to horses via bites from infected mosquitoes. Clinical signs include flu-like symptoms, where the horse seems mildly anorexic and depressed. Changes in mentality, drowsiness, driving or pushing forward (often without control) and asymmetrical weakness may be observed.
The mortality rate from West Nile Virus can be as high as 30-40 percent in horses. Infection doesn’t always lead to signs of illness in people or animals. West Nile Virus is endemic in the United States and Ohio has reported positive cases in horses each of the last few years. There were 14 confirmed cases in Ohio in 2017.
“My message to horse owners is simple: vaccinate your animals and you can protect against West Nile Virus,” said State Veterinarian Dr. Tony Forshey. “Vaccines are a proven and effective prevention tool and I encourage all owners to talk to their veterinarian to learn how they can easily keep their animals healthy.”
In addition to vaccinations, horse owners should work to reduce the mosquito population and eliminate possible breeding areas. Recommendations include: removing stagnant water sources; keeping animals inside during the bugs’ feeding times, which are typically early in the morning and evening; and using mosquito repellents.
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