Dr. Fred Lehman, Extension veterinarian with Mississippi State University's College of Veterinary Medicine, said health officials believe emus from a flock in Lincoln County died recently from Eastern Equine Encephalitis. On June 10, the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory reported the diagnosis of the virus.
Wild birds can carry the virus which is spread through mosquitoes to horses.
There is no effective treatment, and seizures resulting in death usually occur within two to three days of an animal's first symptoms. Lehman said the state veterinarian's office is working with Extension Service agents, veterinarians and other agencies to help educate horse owners and the public. The virus cannot be transmitted to humans from infected horses, only from mosquitoes. There is a remote chance that humans can contract the disease. The State Health Department is encouraging people in south central Mississippi to take steps to avoid mosquito bites.