Adult mosquitoes in the St. Louis area have tested positive for West Nile virus. Harbored in birds and spread by mosquitoes, horses are affected by WNV more than other domestic animals. Horses and people are known as dead-end hosts because no evidence shows cases of the disease being spread to other humans or animals
West Nile virus in Missouri
Horses and people are known as dead-end hosts because no evidence shows cases of the disease being spread to other humans or animals.
The Jefferson County Health Department announced the findings Monday. This was the first time this year that mosquitoes have been collected in the county that is just south of St. Louis County.
Horse owners should take steps to limit horses' exposure to mosquitoes and prevent cases of West Nile virus by keeping them indoors during peak mosquito activity periods, such as dawn and dusk. Stalls should be screened whenever possible and fans installed over horses to help deter mosquitos.
Since mosquitoes are attracted to light, avoid turning lights on in the stalls during the evening or overnight. Placing incandescent bulbs around the perimeter of the stable or use of electric bug zappers will draw mosquitoes away from the horses. Also, birds, including chickens, should not be living in or close to the stable.
For humans, health officials recommend using insect repellents with DEET or Picaridin. They also recommend removing standing water in tires, cans, buckets and other containers and keeping gutters free of debris.