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Eastern Equine Encephalitis and West Nile virus confirmed in two horses
Horses in two different counties tested positive for two different equine diseases this week. A Todd County horse was confirmed positive on both Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and West Nile virus (WNv) tests, and a Kandiyohi County horse was confirmed with WNv.
Kandiyohi County
- A yearling miniature horse colt with an unknown vaccination history tested positive for WNv. The colt could rise with assistance and had some clinical signs of the disease. His condition is improving and he received a WNv vaccination.
Todd County
- An unvaccinated 3-year-old Standardbred stallion who was unable to stand was euthanized in late July due to its deteriorating condition. The veterinarian collected diagnostic samples and both WNv and EEE were confirmed.
Both of these viruses are primarily transmitted by mosquitos, while horses are a “dead end host” and unable to transmit the disease to other horses or people. Even though people cannot contract the disease from horses, cases in horses are a clear indication infected mosquitos are in the area and can potentially infect humans.
Clinical illness and fatality in horses can be limited through vaccine and decreased exposure. The Board encourages all horse owners to work with their veterinarians to get their horses vaccinated and booster vaccines regularly, especially in an area where these diseases are confirmed.
New online map categorizes Minnesota rabies cases
Rabies is a preventable viral disease of mammals that affects the central nervous system. The virus is most often transmitted through the bite of a rabid animal.
The Board investigates rabies cases and may quarantine exposed animals to prevent the spread of the virus. Wild animals make up the majority of Minnesota’s annually reported rabies cases. Species of highest concern include skunks and bats, which are carriers for the virus. Less than 15 percent of rabid animal cases reported annually in Minnesota occur in domestic species; the most common being cattle, cats and dogs.
The Board already publishes data on rabies cases on its website. This new map is an added feature to highlight where cases are confirmed around the state. Animal owners can use this map to understand where cases occur and discuss rabies vaccination with their veterinarian.
View the new map on the Board website.
Reach out directly to our programs today
Did you know we have program email addresses at the Board? Here's a list of each program and its address if you need support or have questions/concerns:
North Dakota changes poultry import requirements
The North Dakota Board of Animal Health recently implemented new import requirements for poultry. Like Minnesota and many other states, North Dakota will now require an import permit be obtained prior to shipment/entry. They will also be transitioning away from paper or PDF versions of VS 9-3 forms and other Reports of Sales. Acceptable forms should be approved for use prior to shipment.
If you have follow-up questions, please call the North Dakota Board of Animal Health, North Dakota Department of Agriculture at 701-328-2655.
For import requirements of other states, please check directly with the National Poultry Improvement Plan Official State Agency in the state of destination. The NPIP website maintains a list of contact numbers.
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