Equine West Nile Virus Cases
Two cases of West Nile Virus (WNV) in horses have been confirmed in Fremont County. These are the first cases of equine WNV reported to the Wyoming Livestock Board this year. Vaccination of equine against WNV is a key tool in protection against the disease! More information on the disease is provided below.
WNV cases and other equine disease cases are reported to the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC). For equine disease alerts, visit the link below.
The Wyoming Department of Health (WDH) tests mosquito pools for WNV across the state, for more information on mosquito testing in your area, visit the link below.
West Nile Virus Infection in Equine
Transmission
WNV is spread by mosquitoes when they feed on infected birds and then bite people and horses. Horses CANNOT spread WNV directly to humans or to other horses.
Signs of Infection
Cases of WNV in equine can range from mild to severe. Contact your veterinarian if you see any of the following clinical signs in your equine:
- Muscle tremors
- Incoordination
- Stumbling
- Weak limbs
- Unable to stand
- Convulsions
- Impaired vision
Treatment
Horses with WNV often require supportive veterinary care. Treatments vary depending on the severity of the case.
Prevention
1. Vaccinate horses for WNV, preferably in the spring before mosquito season.
- Follow manufacturer’s instructions for vaccine administration and booster recommendations.
2. Reduce the risk of your horse being bitten by an infected mosquito.
- Eliminate water-holding containers, where mosquitoes can breed:
- Remove old tires
- Cover or drill holes in barrels, buckets or tubs stored outside
- Turn over wheelbarrows when not in use
- Use sprays on your horse to repel mosquitoes
- Use fans to deter mosquitoes
- Bring horses into barns at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active
- Attach and maintain screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of horse barns
Please contact the Wyoming Livestock Board to report a suspected or confirmed case of WNV or if you have any further questions or concerns.
Phone: (307) 777-7515
E-mail: lsbforms-applications@wyo.gov.
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