This is the first appearance of the virus in Delaware. The horse is currently being treated with antibiotics and is expected to make a full recovery. Dr. Wesley Towers, state veterinarian, urges Delaware horse owners to contact their veterinarian if they suspect a horse has been infected with West Nile Virus. West Nile symptoms in horses include listlessness, muscle spasms in the head and neck area, and weakness in the hind limbs. At this time, a vaccine against West Nile Virus does not exist.
Early detection is the only way to help prevent a serious and possibly fatal infection.
An infected horse poses no danger to humans. West Nile Virus is carried by wild birds and can only be transmitted to humans and other mammals through mosquito bites. According to Saveikis, additional spraying would be initiated as warranted in consideration of mosquito population levels and West Nile Virus monitoring results. The Mosquito Control Section will continue to operate its statewide West Nile Virus monitoring network and to interact with the Department of Agriculture's state veterinarian regarding West Nile Virus and horses. Symptoms of West Nile Encephalitis in humans include the sudden onset of severe headache, high fever, stiff neck, confusion, and muscle weakness.