The Woodward News

Local News

September 15, 2012

West Nile Virus can also affect horses

Gary Engel Woodward News

Woodward, Okla. — OKLAHOMA CITY - While much of the focus of West Nile Virus (WNV) is currently on how it affects humans, state veterinarians are also urging protection for horses.

The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry (ODAFF) reports that 3 horses have been positively diagnosed with WNV.

"The bird population is the reservoir for the virus, and it's then spread by mosquitos to humans and horses," said the Assistant State Veterinarian, Dr. Michael Herrin.

He said the most likely WNV-carrier mosquitos lay eggs in small pools of standing water.

"The mosquitos then transmit the virus after they feed on birds carrying it, and within 10 to 14 days, WNV can be transmitted to horses and humans by the mosquitos," he said.



SYMPTOMS OF EXPOSURE

The State Veterinarian, Dr. Rod Hall, said of infected horses, "we notice their neurological responses. They may stay down, or butt their heads against a wall."

Herrin said the additional signs of a WNV horse infection may also include weakness, fever, lack of coordination, seizures and blindness.

Herrin said there are several vaccines available to treat equines, and he encouraged horse owners to consult a veterinarian for development of a treatment protocol.

"Generally, a horse needs 2 doses of medication, about 3 to 4 weeks apart," Hall said. "Then, like in animals who have never had WNV, they should get a dose annually."

STOPPING WNV SPREAD

The elimination of standing water reduces the risk of WNV spreading, Herrin said.

"Horse owners should not let water stagnate in tanks or bird baths, and turn over wheelbarrows," he said.

When possible, he said that, as for humans, outdoor exposure at dusk and dawn should be limited.

"This is when the mosquitos that carry WNV are most active," he said.

Contact Herrin for more information at (405) 522-6142 or michael.herrin@ag.ok.gov.

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