Horses test positive for EEE in 2 Alabama counties
MONTGOMERY, Ala. The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries has reported two positive cases of eastern equine encephalitis in horses in Covington and Mobile counties.
EEE is a mosquito-transmitted disease that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says is rare but severe.
ADAI says the mortality rate in horses from EEE is almost 90%, as opposed to the horse mortality rate of about 30% for the West Nile virus.
In a news release, ADAI says these diseases cause inflammation or swelling of the brain and spinal cord. General symptoms include central nervous system signs, such as head pressing, convulsions, lack of response to facial stimulation, fever above 103 degrees, ataxia, paralysis, anorexia, depression and stupor. Other symptoms may include irregular gait, teeth grinding, circling and staggering.
ADAI says an infected horse may not exhibit all symptoms.
ADAI Commissioner Rick Pate is advising horse owners to vaccinate for both eastern equine encephalitis and the West Nile virus. He says both diseases can pose a significant threat to equine health, and vaccination is the most effective way to protect horses.
“Mosquito-borne viruses like EEE and WNV are prevalent in Alabama’s warm and wet climate,” said Pate. “I want to encourage horse owners to take these precautionary measures and vaccinate their horses.”
In the release, state veterinarian Dr. Tony Frazier advises having horses vaccinated against both diseases every six months.
In addition to vaccination, ADAI recommends these preventative measures to reduce the risk of EEE and WNV”
Reduce mosquito exposure: Use insect repellents, keep horses indoors during peak mosquito activity at dawn and dusk, and utilize fans to reduce mosquito landing rates.
Eliminate standing water: Remove or regularly change standing water sources where mosquitoes can breed, such as water troughs, buckets and old tires.
Monitor health: Regularly check horses for signs of these illness and immediately consult a veterinarian if they show symptoms of EEE or WNV.
For more information about EEE or WNV related to animals, you may contact the state veterinarian’s office at 334-240-7253.
WFSA
