Dr. Jeff Hayes, DVM, MS, ADDL Pathology Section Head
The Ohio Department of Agriculture Division of Animal Health encourages horse owners to vaccinate their animals to protect them against both west Nile virus (WNV) and Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) virus. Both viruses are transmitted by mosquitoes. The ADDL strongly supports veterinarians in reminding the public that the most effective way to prevent these two diseases in horses is to have the animals vaccinated by a licensed veterinarian. Additional useful actions to control the mosquito population include eliminating standing water in tires, water baths, and other sources.
At this time of year, there is still time for a horse’s immunity to build before active mosquito season gets into full swing. A two-shot vaccination series within a three- to six-week period may be needed if a horse has not been vaccinated in the past year. Planning ahead may prevent serious disease, and even death, in horses. In 2018, a record 50 horses were documented as infected with west Nile virus, and 38% (19 of 50 cases) either died spontaneously or were euthanized due to the severity of disease.
The ADDL continues to provide testing for both of these viruses by serology and PCR analysis of tissues. The ADDL works together with NVSL to provide serologic testing of blood samples. Please call the ADDL for more information at 614-728-6220, or visit our website test and fees search (pages 18 and 45).