West Nile Virus found in Owyhee County horse

Idaho has recorded its first case of equine West Nile Virus (WNV) this year. The horse is located in Owyhee County and is being treated by a veterinarian.

WNV related mosquitoes have been found in six counties in western Idaho and Power County in eastern Idaho.

West Nile is most commonly spread to people and horses through the bite of an infected mosquito, according to the Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA). The most common signs of WNV in horses are fever and weakness, usually in the hindquarters. It can sometimes be seen as a widened stance, stumbling, leaning to one side and toe dragging.

Mental conditions can include fearfulness, lip-smacking, chewing movements, and fine muscle tremors. Extreme cases can include infection, paralysis, and inability to stand.

ISDA said the best protection for horses is vaccination and physical precautions.

“The WNV vaccination remains a very important preventive measure,” said Idaho State Veterinarian Dr. Bill Barton. “Nearly 98 percent of horses that test positive for WNV have never been adequately vaccinated. Equine owners should speak with their veterinarians about the WNV vaccination as well as how to follow an annual booster schedule. Horses that have been vaccinated in previous years need boosters; a one-time vaccination is not enough.”

Physical precautions include using fans and repellents to keep mosquitoes away.

Horse owners and property owners, in general, should remove standing water on or near their property whenever possible.

You can find more information here.