First 2019 Case Of West Nile In Washington Reported In Klickitat County

The Washington state Department of Agriculture says 2019 has been a fairly light year when it comes to the West Nile Virus.  But, the first case of the disease in a horse has been reported.

WSDA says a two-year-old gelding in Klickitat County has tested positive for the disease.  The horse was treated for what appeared to be colic, but when the condition worsened, the animal became ataxic or unable to control its muscles.  The horse’s condition is improving and the local veterinarian offering care says there is reason for optimism that a full recovery is a possibility.  The WSDA says this case serves as a reminder to all owners to get your horse vaccinated.

Washington State Veterinarian Dr. Brian Joseph said the disease is not always fatal to the infected horse, but most cases that do prove deadly occur in unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated animals.

“This is a good reminder for horse owners to protect their animals by vaccinating for this preventable disease,” Joseph said.

According to U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 493 equine cases of West Nile virus from 42 states were reported in 2018.

Last year, two horses were diagnosed with West Nile virus statewide, but some years have seen much higher numbers of infected horses. In 2015, 36 cases were reported in Washington, with several horses dying or being euthanized as a result of the disease.

West Nile virus is spread by mosquitoes that have fed on infected birds and while it can sicken people, horses, birds and other animals, it does not directly spread from horses to people or other animals.

West Nile virus is prevalent across the country, so it’s always a good idea to keep an eye out for signs of infection in horses. Closely observe your horse and look for signs, which include:

• Fever of 102.5 degrees F or higher
• Discharge from eyes or nose
• Limb edema or swelling
• Spontaneous abortions
• Neurologic signs such as an unsteady gait, weakness, urine dribbling, lack of tail tone and recumbency.

Veterinarians who diagnose potential West Nile virus cases should contact the State Veterinarian’s Office at (360) 902-1878.

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