HORSE MANAGEMENT ARTICLES
Vets Corner - Horse Health Notes
Mark A. Wallace, DVM, MS, Diplomate ACVIM
Reidsville Veterinary Hospital
Reidsville, NC
September 2003
As many of you probably know, this has been a particularly bad year with respect to mosquito-borne diseases in horses. The wet weather has really boosted mosquito populations in our area this and has left horses at increased risk for West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus infections. Both these diseases have killed a number of horses in the North Carolina piedmont this summer. Preventive vaccinations and mosquito control are important precautions to reduce the risk of your horses contracting one of these potentially fatal viral infections.
West Nile Virus West Nile virus first appeared in the United States in 1999 and has since spread over most of the country. The virus is transmitted to horses, humans and birds through the bite of infected mosquitoes. Horses do not appear to be capable of transmitting the disease. Signs of West Nile infection in horses include: in coordination, stumbling, depression, possible fever, weakness or paralysis, inability to stand, and muscle twitching. Death occurs in about one third of equine cases. There is an approved vaccine for West Nile prevention that is available through your veterinarian. Vaccination requires an initial injection plus a booster shot 3-6 weeks later (for first-time vaccinated horses).
Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) EEE is also known as sleeping sickness and occurs mainly in the southeastern United States. EEE virus is transmitted to horses by mosquitoes that have fed on infected birds. Affected horses may run a fever, appear sleepy, stagger, walk stiffly or have convulsions. Note that these signs are very similar to both West Nile and Rabies virus infections. Close to 90% of affected horses will die from EEE infection. In most years, EEE is found only in the eastern part of the state. This year, however, a number of cases have been seen right here in the piedmont. There is an approved vaccination for this disease. Horses that are not up to date on their immunizations will require an initial shot plus a booster 2-4 weeks later. Vaccination is recommended every 6 months.
Mosquito Control You can reduce the likelihood of infection in your horse to West Nile and EEE by limiting exposure to mosquitoes. Stagnant water should be drained from troughs, flowerpots or any standing areas that may act as mosquito breeding locations. Dispose of any water-holding containers such as old tires. Thoroughly clean water troughs and buckets every few days to prevent mosquito larvae from hatching. Horses may be stabled during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active (one study has suggested that horses stabled at night may be at reduced risk of West Nile infection). Fans will also reduce the potential of mosquitoes to feed on horses. The use of insect repellents may also help to reduce exposure but should not be used as the sole control measure.
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