Results of diagnostic testing reported last night by Murray State University’s Breathitt Veterinary Center has confirmed the diagnosis of West Nile virus affecting two additional horses in Kentucky. The diagnosis is based on detectable WNV–specific IgM antibodies and presentation of compatible clinical symptoms.
These two additional cases are the 5th and 6th equine cases reported year-to-date in Kentucky, none of which are reported or thought to have been vaccinated.
In LOGAN County KDA Reference 006
A 10-year-old female Belgian that is still alive. Date of onset of signs was Oct. 31, 2016. She was reported to be lethargic, mild ataxia predominantly in the rear limbs, and inappetance. As of November 3 the attending veterinarian reported that she was showing some improvement. She has no WNV vaccination history.
In UNION County KDA Reference 005
A 2-year-old Saddlebred colt is alive. Date of onset of clinical signs was Oct. 31, 2016. He was reported to have muscle fasciculation and mild ataxia On November 3 he was – reported to be in a stable condition and not worsening. He had not WNV vaccination history.
The Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s West Nile web page has been updated to reflect these two cases.
2016 KY’s Equine West Nile Virus – Updated 11/04/2016
6 Case(s) Reported – Map of affected counties
Animal’s Disposition:
6 – Survived / 0 – Euthanized
Animal’s West Nile Vaccination Status:
6 Not Vaccinated
Affected Counties: Equine in 6 of Kentucky’s 120 Counties
Barren (1), Bourbon (1), Hart (1), Hardin (1), Logan (1), Union (1)
This information was provided by Rusty E.S. Rusty Ford, Equine Programs Manager, Kentucky Department of Agriculture.
