media release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 19, 2012
Contact: Christi
Lightcap, (303) 239-4190, Christi.lightcap@ag.state.co.us
Two Colorado Horses Infected with West Nile Virus
CDA Provides Tips for Protecting Horses
LAKEWOOD, Colo. – Two equine
cases of West Nile Virus (WNV) have been diagnosed in Colorado as of July 18,
2012. The cases that have been recently
diagnosed represent the first reported cases of West Nile Virus this year. The
WNV positive tests were submitted from horses in Fremont and Weld counties;
both horses are currently being treated for symptoms related to WNV.
West Nile virus is a disease
that threatens the health of humans, horses, and other animals. “Late summer
and early fall have traditionally been the time of year when we are most likely
to see WNV cases reported in horse,” said Colorado State Veterinarian, Dr.
Keith Roehr. “In the past few years
there have been very few reported equine case of WNV in Colorado; it is
difficult to project how many WNV cases we may see in the coming months.”
The transmission of the
disease varies from year to year and depends on a number of factors, including
mosquito numbers. The West Nile virus can be carried by infected birds
and then spread locally by mosquitoes that bite those birds. The mosquitoes can
then pass the virus to humans and animals.
Infected horses may display
symptoms including head tilt, muscle tremors, stumbling, lack
of coordination, weakness of the limbs or partial paralysis. If horses exhibit clinical signs consistent
with WNV, it is very important for horse owners to contact their veterinarian
in order to confirm the diagnosis through laboratory testing. Horse
owners should consult their private practicing veterinarian to determine an
appropriate prevention strategy for their horses.
Vaccines have proven to be a
very effective prevention tool. Horses
that have been vaccinated in past years will 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.
In addition to vaccinations, horse owners also need to
reduce the mosquito populations and their 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.
For complete and updated
information concerning new WNV equine case information including numbers and
location of test positive horses visit:
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