The Kansas Department of Agriculture Division of Animal Health (KDA–DAH) was notified in August by the Kansas State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory that a horse in Reno County has tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). The horse was euthanized due to the severity of the illness. This is the first reported equine case of WNV in Kansas in 2017. Horse owners are encouraged to vaccinate their horses to prevent the spread of WNV.
West Nile virus is the most common mosquito-borne disease in Kansas and in the United States. It causes severe neurological disease in horses. Birds and humans are also susceptible to the virus; other livestock and pet animals are not susceptible to WNV. Clinical signs in horses can include fever, incoordination, generalized weakness, drooping lips, teeth grinding and inability to rise. There is no specific treatment for WNV, but there are several effective vaccines available for use in horses.
Vaccines have proven to be a very effective prevention tool. Horses that have been vaccinated in past years will need an annual booster shot. Horse owners should also consult their private practicing veterinarian to determine an appropriate disease prevention plan for their horses.
In addition to vaccinations, horse owners also need to reduce the mosquito populations and their possible breeding areas.
For more information about WNV or other animal disease issues in Kansas, go to the KDA–DAH website at agriculture.ks.gov/AnimalHealth. If you have questions, please call KDA–DAH at 785-564-6601.
MOST VIEWED STORIES
Three former Atchison Co employees arrested on felonies
One hospitalized, one jailed, after Atchison attack
Fentanyl find nets four in two Atchison cases
Services set for Effingham woman killed in crash
Barricaded fugitive arrested in Jackson County
Two file to challenge local legislator
Four injured in Richardson Co rollover crash
Support sought for fire ravaged family
Fatal Atchison apt fire investigation continues
USD 415 board select new member
U.S. 36 work in Doniphan Co to impact motorists
Results from SE Nebraska contested Primary Elections
Armed felon found, arrested, in Jackson Co
Date set for signals switch at Hiawatha intersection
Ozawkie man facing multiple child sex charges
State Board approves land transfer agreements
Flags to fly half staff Wednesday across KS
LATEST STORIES
Sabetha man arrested on drug charges
Wanted felon arrested in Hiawatha
St. Joseph teacher arrested for student sex crimes
Jefferson Co readies for Co Fair season
MO man injured in KS weather-related crash
Ozawkie man facing multiple child sex charges
4th candidate files for local KS House seat
Public health advisory issued for local lake