Horse Owners Reminded to Vaccinate Animals Against EEE, WNV

The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is reminding horse owners to vaccinate for Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and West Nile virus (WNV). Both diseases are carried by mosquitoes, and vaccinating horses offers considerable protection.  

EEE and WNV may cause brain inflammation, and equine mortality rates approach 90% for EEE and 30% for WNV. While humans may be infected, the viruses do not pass between people and horses. Transmission occurs when mosquitoes carry viruses from infected birds and bite warm-blooded animals.

Symptoms are similar for both diseases but tend to be more severe with EEE. They include depression, appetite loss, drooping eyelids and lower lip, fever, weakness, twitching, paralysis or lack of coordination, aimless wandering, circling, blindness, seizures, and inability to stand.

Parts of the state experiencing a wet and muddy spring could see an early spike in the presence of mosquitoes, leading to an increased threat of disease. While vaccination can be effective, DATCP offers these tips to limit horses’ exposure to mosquitoes:

• Remove items that could collect stagnant water (e.g., old tires, tin cans, plastic containers).
• Keep rain gutters draining properly; turn wading pools and wheelbarrows upside down.
• Clean and chlorinate pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs; drain water from pool covers.
• Empty and replace water in birdbaths at least once a week.
• Consider keeping horses in the barn from dusk to dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.

Horse owners are encouraged to discuss vaccination for EEE, WNV and other diseases with their veterinarians as soon as possible. To learn more, visit the DATCP website.

Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection
Division of Animal Health
https://datcp.wi.gov