The Connecticut Department of Agriculture announced today the first domestic animal cases of West Nile Virus (WNV) infection for 2018. A 25-year old miniature horse from Greenwich presented on August 20 with recumbency and an abnormal gait. Diagnostic samples collected and submitted on August 22 by the attending veterinarian were found positive for WNV infection. The horse was treated and is recovering.
An 18-year old horse from Glastonbury was observed on August 28 by its owner, lethargic and not eating. The diagnostic sample collected and submitted by the attending veterinarian on August 29 was positive for WNV infection. The horse’s condition continued to deteriorate and it was humanely euthanized by the veterinarian. Both horses had no recent history of a WNV vaccination or travel.
Since 2001, a WNV vaccine for horses has been available through licensed veterinarians. “Horse owners should review their animals’ vaccination records with their veterinarians to ensure that WNV and Eastern Equine Encephalomyelitis (EEE) vaccinations are current and their horses are protected during the mosquito season,” said Dr. Mary Jane Lis, State Veterinarian for the Department of Agriculture. Vaccination is the best way to protect your horse.
Horses are the domestic animals most susceptible to infection with the virus. Neurological diseases of domestic animals, such as WNV and EEE, are reportable to the State Veterinarian.
For more information about WNV infections in domestic animals and birds click here