Northern Illinois Equine  Veterinary Service

Outbreak Alert - WNV

A case of West Nile virus (WNV) was recently reported in a bird near Jefferson, Wisconsin. WNV is a potentially deadly virus that causes inflammation of the brain and threatens horses, birds and humans.¹ While the risk of horses contracting the disease is lower than it used to be, equine WNV remains dangerous and widespread - a serious threat to the health of horses throughout the country. ¹ One out of three horses that gets sick from WNV dies or must be euthanized.² 

It's important to note that vaccinating against West Nile virus costs far less than treating the disease. In fact, treatment is 45 times more expensive than vaccination.⁵

Other disease prevention measures include: ⁶

• Decreasing a horse's exposure to mosquitoes, which can breed in any standing water that lasts more than four days.
• Removing all sources where water can collect.
• Minimizing the number of lights turned on at night, especially near stables or barns.

For more information about WNV or other equine diseases, talk with your veterinarian. 

Clinical Signs of West Nile:

-Stumbling

-Lack of coordination

-Depression

-Limb weakness

-Muscle and lip twitching

Preventative Measures Against West Nile:

-Vaccination

-Decrease horse's exposure to mosquitoes, which can    breed in any standing water that lasts more than four days

-Removing all sources where water can collect

-Minimizing the number of lights turned on at night, especially near stables or barns

If you think your horse has West Nile Virus, contact your veterinarian immediately!