The threat of competition is not the only risk for the upcoming 2015 show season. With the arrival of warming weather, mosquitos are becoming more active in many areas, West Nile virus remains a threat to horses, and protecting them is crucial to their health.
Protecting horses from West Nile virus
According to the American Association of Equine Practitioners guidelines, West Nile virus is considered a core vaccination requirement and two shots are required for full immunity.
West Nile virus causes infection and inflammation of the central nervous system. It is transmitted by mosquitoes, which feed on infected birds or other animals and can infect horses, humans and other mammals.
According to the American Association of Equine Practitioners guidelines, West Nile virus is considered a core vaccination requirement, along with vaccinations for Eastern equine encephalomyelitis, Western equine encephalomyelitis, tetanus and rabies. All horses should receive a West Nile virus vaccine annually.
West Nile does not always lead to clinical signs of illness. For horses that show clinical illness, the virus can cause loss of appetite and depression. Other clinical signs may include fever, weakness or paralysis of hind limbs, impaired vision, ataxia, aimless wandering, walking in circles, hyperexcitability or coma. Horse owners should contact their veterinarian immediately if they notice any of these behaviors.
The case fatality rate for horses exhibiting clinical signs of West Nile virus infection is approximately 33%. Data have supported that 40% of horses that survive the acute illness caused by WNV still exhibit residual effects, such as gait and behavioral abnormalities, 6-months post-diagnosis.
Veterinarians urge horse owners to take preventive measures by making sure horses are vaccinated annually with a USDA approved vaccine to avoid the complications of West Nile infections in horses. In addition, measures should be taken to destroy any mosquito breeding habitats by removing all potential sources of stagnant water, cleaning and emptying any water-holding containers and vaccination.
No matter the location, horses are at risk for West Nile virus. By eliminating mosquito breeding habitats and providing proper vaccination, horse owners can do their part to help prevent West Nile virus infections.