The positive result came from a horse stabled on Saugatucket Road in Wakefield that was euthanized at Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine in Massachusetts on August 28. Tests were performed by the National Veterinary Services Laboratories in Ames, Iowa for the United States Department of Agriculture. Confirmatory test results were received by DEM about 10 a. m. today. This marks the first time in Rhode Island that a horse has contracted the disease, evidence that mammal-biting mosquitoes in Rhode Island that bite humans are carrying the West Nile Virus. Despite intensive trapping, DEM has yet to identify mosquitoes with the disease.
Mosquitoes are the only means of transmitting West Nile Virus.
Today's news is not unexpected since West Nile Virus has already been identified this year in birds in Rhode Island as well as in neighboring states. It is a reminder that all Rhode Islanders should continue to take personal protection steps to avoid mosquito bites, and to prevent mosquito breeding grounds around their homes. Although horses can be protected by vaccine to EEE, there is no vaccine for West Nile Virus. Horse owners are advised to stable their horses during high mosquito feeding times - dusk through dawn. Insect proofing of stables and use of repellents is strongly recommended.