The Michigan departments of Community Health (MDCH) and Agriculture (MDA) received confirmation on July 26 from the Michigan State University  Diagnostic Center for Population and Animal Health (DCPAH) that a three month old Percheron filly from Calhoun County and a 12 month old Arabian male from Barry County tested positive for the mosquito-borne disease Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE).

MDA has also been informed that several additional horses in Cass County are highly suspect for EEE and are pending test results.

In total, there have been three horses positive cases of EEE in Michigan thus far for 2010. MDA was notified on July 20, 2010 of a third case from a four year old mixed breed mare from Cass County by the National Veterinary Services Laboratories. This horse was also displaying signs of neurologic disease typical of EEE, including staggering and depression, as well as fever.

"We are concerned about this finding of EEE in southwest Michigan and the likelihood of additional cases, so it's imperative people take every precaution possible to prevent mosquito borne disease exposure for themselves and their livestock," said Steven Halstead, DVM, MS, Michigan State Veterinarian. "A simple vaccination will protect your animal from these often fatal illnesses, and routine measures to reduce mosquito exposure and eliminate mosquito habitats around the home and farm will help protect people, horses, and other livestock. Horse owners should consult their veterinarian regarding measures appropriate for their herd