According to the UDAF, there have been positive cases in horses in 11 counties in Utah, for a total of 20 cases. Six horses were euthanized because of the disease. Utah County has had the most cases at five, followed by Box Elder and Cache counties, both with three cases each.
West Nile Virus is spread by mosquitoes, and while many people may already know that it is very dangerous for humans, it can also affect horses. In fact, it can cause serious illness or death in unvaccinated horses, but according to State Veterinarian Dr. Amanda Price, vaccination is the most effective way to protect horses from West Nile Virus.
“The vaccines are safe, low cost, and provide strong protection, while treatment for infected horses can be very expensive and does not guarantee recovery,” Price explained.
The UDAF is urging horse owners to talk to their veterinarian to make sure their horses are current on all vaccinations, including West Nile Virus. Owners should also take steps to reduce mosquito populations on their property: remove standing water, regularly wash troughs, and use insect repellent when appropriate.
Neurologic diseases in horses, like West Nile Virus, are required to be reported to the State Veterinarian’s office so that the State Veterinarian can work with other agencies to reduce the risk of West Nile Virus to other horses and to people.
Symptoms of West Nile Virus in horses can include stumbling, lack of coordination, muscle twitching, weakness, or paralysis. West Nile Virus kills up to 35% of infected horses and leaves up to 40% with permanent complications.
You can learn more about West Nile Virus vaccination and disease prevention in horses here.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), West Nile Virus is the “leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the continental United States.” The disease is primarily spread through mosquito bites, but on rare occasions can be passed person-to-person.
The CDC says that 8 out of 10 people do not develop symptoms after being infected with West Nile Virus. Some people (1 in 5) will develop a fever and other symptoms, such as aches, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Most people with these symptoms will recover completely, but fatigue and weakness can last for weeks to months, according to the CDC.
In even fewer cases, roughly 1 in 150, people infected with West Nile Virus will develop a severe illness such as encephalitis or meningitis. The CDC states that older adults and those who are immunocompromised are most at risk of developing these illnesses, and 1 in 10 of those who develop severe illness die.
There is no specific treatment or vaccine available for West Nile Virus. Some symptoms can be relieved with over-the-counter medications, but if severe illness develops, patients often need to be hospitalized.
The CDC states that the best way to protect yourself from West Nile Virus is to prevent mosquito bites. More information about how the disease spreads and information about West Nile Virus can be found on the CDC’s website.
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