The state veterinarian has confirmed that a horse in Mountrail County, North Dakota, has tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV).
EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. The EDCC is an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.
WNV 101
West Nile virus is transmitted to horses via bites from infected mosquitoes. Clinical signs of WNV in horses can vary, including flulike symptoms, muscle twitching, hypersensitivity, changes in mentation, drowsiness, propulsive walking, and spinal signs.
There is no cure for West Nile virus in horses, and mortality rates can be high. Vaccination is a key prevention method, with annual booster shots recommended for previously vaccinated horses and a two-shot series for unvaccinated horses. Owners can also reduce mosquito exposure for their horses by eliminating stagnant water sources, cleaning water containers regularly, keeping horses indoors during peak mosquito activity times, and using approved mosquito repellents.