The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) reported four additional equines that were displaying neurologic signs were confirmed positive for West Nile virus (WNV). For 2018, a total of five horses in California have been confirmed positive for West Nile virus. The positive horses are located in Kern, Placer, Sacramento (2 cases) and Shasta counties.
Three horses were unvaccinated and two horses were vaccinated. Three horses died or were euthanized and two horses are alive. CDFA continually monitors and investigates equine neurologic cases for the presence of WNV in California. CDFA urges horse owners to consult their veterinarian concerning a WNV vaccination program to ensure maximum protection of their horses. For more information visit https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/ahfss/animal_health/WNV_Info.html .
Ohio West Nile Virus Report
The Ohio Department of Agriculture has confirmed a case of West Nile virus at a private facility in Holmes County. An unvaccinated yearling Standardbred filly showed an onset of signs on August 6. Her clinical signs included rear limb paresis, recumbency and depression. The filly was euthanized following an attempt at treatment. Test samples were submitted to the National Veterinary Services Laboratory and confirmed on IgM capture ELISA.
