Horse Dies from Infection with EEEV in Town of Mexico

OSWEGO COUNTY – The Oswego County Health Department reported today that a horse in the town of Mexico has died from an infection with Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) virus. The diagnosis was confirmed in tests conducted by the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH).

Oswego County Public Health Director Vera Dunsmoor reminds horse owners that their animals are vulnerable to mosquito-borne viruses if they are not vaccinated.

“Horses are particularly susceptible to these viruses,” she said. “While they should be vaccinated at the start of mosquito season, it’s not too late. Owners should consult with their veterinary care providers to ensure current vaccination protocols are followed. If administered properly, these vaccines are highly effective.”

Horse owners can provide additional protection by bringing their horses inside the stable during peak periods of mosquito activity and by rubbing down the horse with fly and insect repellent wipes.

Symptoms of these viruses in horses vary greatly, ranging from barely noticeable to signs such as staggering, blindness and unconsciousness. In horses showing visible signs of disease, 50-90% of cases may be fatal.

A horse cannot transmit EEEV to a person, but infected mosquitoes pose a risk to humans, horses and other mammals, as well as domestic birds.

Dunsmoor reminds people that the best defense against mosquito-borne viruses is to remain vigilant in your personal protection measures to guard against their bites.

“Limit outdoor activities between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active, wear protective clothing such as long sleeves, pants, socks and shoes when outdoors and use insect repellents,” she said.

Those that contain DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus are most effective. Repellents that contain permethrin are meant for clothing and gear and should not be applied directly to the skin. Be sure to read the product labels and follow package instructions.

The Oswego County Health Department conducted aerial spraying in the West Monroe area on Aug. 7. Although the spray was effective in reducing some of the targeted mosquito populations, recent surveillance shows that mosquitoes are still active around the county.

Residents are reminded to continue their efforts to prevent exposure to mosquitoes by maintaining window and door screens, eliminating any standing water around the home and changing the water in birdbaths and horse troughs twice a week.

The Oswego County Health Department continues to work with NYSDOH to monitor mosquito activity around the county.

For more information about protecting your family against mosquitoes, call the Oswego County Health Department at 315-349-3547 or visit the New York State Department of Health website at http://www.health.ny.gov/publications/2731/.

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