A horse in Owyhee County is undergoing treatment after contracting West Nile virus, according to the Idaho State Department of Agriculture Animal Health Laboratory.Â
This marks Idaho's first equine case of West Nile virus this year.
The most common signs of the virus in horses are fever and weakness, which is sometimes shown in the hindquarters with a widened stance, stumbling, toe dragging or leaning to one side. Mental conditions such as fearfulness, lip-smacking, chewing movements and fine muscle tremors are also signs. In extreme cases, paralysis and inability to stand may follow.
The department recommends vaccination and physical precautions to keep horses from contracting the virus.
Vaccination is a "a very important preventive measure," Idaho State Veterinarian Dr. Bill Barton said in a press release. “Nearly 98 percent of horses that test positive for WNV have never been adequately vaccinated."
Horses that have been vaccinated in previous years need boosters, Barton added.
Other precautions include using fans and repellents to keep mosquitoes away from horses. Additionally, horse owners should remove standing water on or near their property whenever possible.
Additional information about the virus and a map of known affected counties is available from the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare’s website, www.westnile.idaho.gov.
