NAIS: State Role

West Nile Virus (WNV)

Division of Animal and Food Industry ServicesOffice of Veterinary Services

Causative Agent

Virus

Infects Humans, Birds, Mosquitoes, Horses and Other Mammals

Transmission

Birds are the reservoir host

Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds

Mosquitoes can then transmit the virus to humans and other animals when they bite

Clinical Signs in Horses

Paralysis of lips, facial muscles or tongue

Blindness Drowsiness Muscle and skin

twitching Hyperesthesia

Altered mentation Seizures Weakness, ataxia Recumbency Trouble getting up Sound sensitive

Diagnosis & Treatment for Horses

Clinical signs consistent with the disease Serology (blood test) Post-mortem examination (necropsy) if horse

deceased Symptomatic and supportive treatment by

licensed veterinarian Treatment is potentially costly and affected

animals may die despite treatment

Prevention

West Nile Virus Vaccine– Killed product– 2 doses

3-6 weeks apart

– Annual or Semi-Annual Booster Specific vaccination strategy should be

sought from your local equine veterinarian Vaccination is a highly effective and relatively

inexpensive way to prevent this potentially deadly disease

Mosquito Management

Source Reduction– Minimize mosquito breeding areas

Limit standing water– Old tires, swimming pools, rain gutters, containers that

hold water

Personal Protection

Limit time outside during periods of mosquito activity

Use mosquito repellant Wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors Make sure window screens are intact Consult health care provider for additional

information

Who should I contact if WNV suspected ?

Animals– Contact your veterinarian

Humans– Contact your health care provider

For more Information

http://www.cfsph.iastate.edu/DiseaseInfo/index.php http://www.aaep.org/pdfs/control_guidelines/West%20Nile%20

Virus.pdf http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/nahss/equine/wnv/ www.cdc.gov www.vdh.state.va.us