(Fremont County, WY) – Two cases of West Nile Virus (WNV) in horses have been confirmed in Fremont County, according to the Wyoming Livestock Board and the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC).
One case was reported on August 20, and the other on August 21.
The EDCC has shared that the horse involved in the August 20 case was euthanized, with no quarantine reported. The source in this case was the attending veterinarian. The August 21 case indicates that no quarantine was reported, with no mention of euthanasia. The source for this case was the State Veterinarian.
The reports did not include information as to the specific locations within Fremont County where the cases were confirmed. The Wyoming Livestock Board has shared that these are the first cases of equine West Nile Virus reported to them this year.
The Livestock Board has shared the following information on transmission, treatment, and reduction for West Nile Virus.
Transmission
WNV is spread by mosquitoes when they feed on infected birds and then bite people and horses. Horses CANNOT spread WNV directly to humans or to other horses.
Signs of Infection
Cases of WNV in equine can range from mild to severe. Contact your veterinarian if you see any of the following clinical signs in your equine:
- Muscle tremors
- Incoordination
- Stumbling
- Weak limbs
- Unable to stand
- Convulsions
- Impaired vision
Treatment
Horses with WNV often require supportive veterinary care. Treatments vary depending on the severity of the case.
Prevention
1. Vaccinate horses for WNV, preferably in the spring before mosquito season.
- Follow manufacturer’s instructions for vaccine administration and booster recommendations.
2. Reduce the risk of your horse being bitten by an infected mosquito.
- Eliminate water-holding containers, where mosquitoes can breed:
- Remove old tires
- Cover or drill holes in barrels, buckets or tubs stored outside
- Turn over wheelbarrows when not in use
- Use sprays on your horse to repel mosquitoes
- Use fans to deter mosquitoes
- Bring horses into barns at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active
- Attach and maintain screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of horse barns
More information on West Nile Virus can be found here and here.
The Wyoming Livestock Board asks the public to report a suspected or confirmed case of WNV at the following phone number/email address, and to reach out to them if you have any further questions or concerns.
- Phone: (307) 777-7515
- E-mail: lsbforms-applications@wyo.gov.