Equestrian:West Nile Virus
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[edit] Is NE Washington prepared for West Nile Virus?
West Nile Virus was devastating Eastern Europe in 1998. In 2000 the virus killed thousands of horses up and down the east coast of the United States. It has been steadily progressing across the continent since. Washington State reported its first case of West Nile Virus in 2002. During the later summer months of 2006 West Nile Virus (WNV) was reported in Northern Idaho. It is only a matter of time until Pend Oreille, Stevens, and Ferry counties will be faced with the WNV issues. Are we prepared? Do the majority of horses in this area have some kind of vaccination or preparation for the disease? Do horse owners know the signs that the disease is in their area? Have veterinarians prepared for the arrival of this disease?
These are questions that horse owners should be asking. In Montana the disease marched across the state and killed horses and cost thousands of dollars in expenses before it even became an item of conversation. There was no warning system in place, there were no restrictions and the methods of treatment were vague and sporadic from one clinic to the next. Blood testing took weeks, leaving horse owners to treat on the assumption of the disease. Making some preparations early can save NE Washington horse owners considerable expense and grief.
Did you know that some horses have severe reactions to certain vaccinations for WNV? Other horses have developed laminitis or colic when vaccinated. While thousands of horses have no visible reaction, some horses have been severely affected. Did you know that there are natural remedies and treatments? Did you know that some vaccinations being used for West Nile Virus were not developed for that purpose. Be aware of what your horse is being prepared with. There are many resources for information. Be aware of dead birds in your area and report them to the FDA if you should see an unusual number of dead birds. Take care of mosquito breeding areas quickly in the spring. Remove all standing water and treat water that cannot be removed. Contact your veterinarian for information about the disease and the vaccinations and how they will affect your horse.
When if you hear of WNV affected horses, humans or other animals be sure to report it and better yet, post the number of animals, date, location and any other pertinent information on this website immediately. Visit the WNV links page on this page and be sure to add links that you think might be helpful. Information and preparation can save equine lives - human lives too! Help out by being aware and getting information to those who can help stop the disease.
