Equine West Nile Virus Symptoms and Prevention

Equine West Nile Virus Symptoms and Prevention

Maura Bennett
Maura Bennett
A Larimer County horse has been diagnosed with West Nile Virus; this is Colorado's first confirmed case of WNV in a horse in 2018. Colorado State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory in Fort Collins confirmed the infection.

State Veterinarian, Dr. Keith Roehr said strict insect control is an important factor to inhibit the transmission and spread of West Nile Virus. He encouraged livestock owners to keep an eye out for standing water for mosquito populations. Roehr Recommendations also include keeping animals inside during the bugs' feeding times, which are typically early in the morning and evening, and using mosquito repellents.

Infected horses display a variety of symptoms

Audio from horse.com

The State Veterinarian's office said vaccines in horses have proven to be a very effective prevention tool. Horses that have been vaccinated in past years need an annual booster shot. If an owner did not vaccinate their animal in previous years, the horse will need the two-shot vaccination series within a three to four-week period.

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