The Delaware Department of Agriculture announced today that two more horses have tested positive for West Nile Virus in tests performed by the National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Ames, Iowa. Both cases are in the west Dover area. 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. To help reduce the risk of catching West Nile Virus, the Delaware Division of Public Health encourages Delawareans to eliminate mosquito-breeding areas, such as stagnant water in birdbaths, old tires and clogged gutters. Symptoms of West Nile Encephalitis in humans include the sudden onset of severe headache, high fever, stiff neck, confusion, and muscle weakness. Individuals with these symptoms should see their personal physician or seek medical attention immediately.