Causative Agent

2. Causative Agent • Virus • Infects Humans, Birds, Mosquitoes, Horses and Other Mammals

3. 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

4. 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 Clinical Signs in Horses

5. 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

6. 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

7. Mosquito Management • Source Reduction • Minimize mosquito breeding areas • Limit standing water • Old tires, swimming pools, rain gutters, containers that hold water

8. 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

9. Who should I contact if WNV suspected ? • Animals • Contact your veterinarian • Humans • Contact your health care provider

10. For more Information • http://www.cfsph.iastate.edu/DiseaseInfo/index.php • http://www.aaep.org/pdfs/control_guidelines/West%20Nile%20Virus.pdf • http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/nahss/equine/wnv/ • www.cdc.gov • www.vdh.state.va.us