Although autumn has arrived in many areas bringing with it cooler weather, mosquitoes carrying diseases are still a threat in many areas of the country. Sample mosquitoes in Eastern, Mid-western. Southern and Pacific Coast states continue to test positive for Eastern equine encephalitis, and West Nile virus.
Mosquito-borne horse diseases
Newly confirmed cases of EEE and West Nile Virus in both horses and humans are announced, and officials warn the threat will remain until the first hard frost.
Several states including California, Kentucky, Rhode Island, Vermont and Massachusetts have issued statements regarding newly confirmed cases of EEE and West Nile Virus in both horses and humans, and officials warn the mosquito threat will remain until the first hard frost in many areas.
Residents in mosquito-prone areas should do everything in their power to prevent infected mosquitoes from biting both humans and horses.
Mosquito breeding areas should be removed by clearing away any potential sources of water in which mosquitoes can breed. This includes old tires, clogged roof drains, wading pools, wheelbarrows, bird baths, empty containers of all kinds, unused or neglected swimming pools and spas, puddles left after rainfall, neglected water troughs, or any other items or areas where water might become trapped.
Steps should be taken to limit exposure to mosquitoes by keeping horses stabled 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 horses.