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Skip Navigation LinksAll Topics > Infectious Diseases > West Nile Virus (WNV)


Articles ( * = TheHorse.com members only )Date Posted
Poll: Mosquito Control Measures
About 980 readers of TheHorse.com responded to a poll asking, "What mosquito control measures do you utilize?" Results were as follows: Insect repellants 78.27% (767) Regular cleaning of water troughs 72.76% (713) Eliminate unnecessary standing water 66.33% (650) Regular manure removal 58.78% (576) Fly masks/sheets 52.55% (515) All of the above 19.90% (195) Stable horses at dusk and dawn 17.86% (175) Readers shared what ... Read full story
 7/2/2009
West Nile Virus is Still a Threat, TheHorse.com Readers Say
More than 890 readers of TheHorse.com responded to a poll asking, "Do you believe West Nile is still a threat to your horse(s)?" Results were as follows: Yes 86.50% (775) No 13.50% (121) Readers shared why they feel West Nile is or is not a big threat in the comments below. Results of weekly polls from TheHorse.com are published in The Horse Health E-Newsletter. Published every week, this e-newsletter offers news on diseases, ... Read full story
 6/28/2009
Foal Immune Responses after WNV Vaccination, AAEP 2008
A study conducted by personnel at the University of Kentucky and other institutions was aimed at determining an appropriate time for vaccinating foals for West Nile virus (WNV), reported David Horohov, PhD, at the 2008 American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention, which was held Dec. 6-10 in San Diego, Calif. Among basic questions to be answered was whether maternal antibodies (that were passed to the foal via the mare's colostrum) would ... Read full story
 6/21/2009
Poll: Majority of TheHorse.com Readers Vaccinate Against WNV
More than 1,270 readers of TheHorse.com responded to a poll asking, "Do you vaccinate for West Nile virus annually?" Results were as follows: Yes 88.10% (1,125) No 11.90% (152) Readers shared their reasoning in the comments below. Poll sponsored by Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health Results of weekly polls from TheHorse.com are published in The Horse Health E-Newsletter. Published every week, this e-newsletter offers ... Read full story
 6/19/2009
Readers Share Top Two Vaccination Choices
Approximately 1,270 readers of TheHorse.com responded to a poll asking, "Which two vaccinations do you feel are most important?" Results were as follows: West Nile virus (WNV) 58.27% (740) Rabies 52.83% (671) Sleeping sickness (EE, WEE, VEE) 49.61% (630) Influenza 24.88% (316) Equine herpes virus (EHV) 8.35% (106) Potomac Horse Fever (PHF) 4.72% (60) (Readers were asked to choose the top two they vaccinate for.) Readers ... Read full story
 6/12/2009
WNV Reality Check! Webinar on TheHorse.com
Do you think West Nile virus (WNV) has run its course in the United States? Then you need to watch the "WNV Reality Check!" on TheHorse.com on Thursday, July 16, at 8 p.m., sponsored by Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health. You can sign up now! According to the Centers for Disease Control, last year there were 687 human cases of West Nile virus in the United States, resulting in 44 deaths. California alone accounted for 292 of the human cases ... Read full story
 6/9/2009
Building Immunity  *
The foal’s immune system is almost a blank slate at birth; researchers are figuring out how to best protect horses as they grow. The process of building immunity against disease-causing pathogens for a horse begins with a foal's first sip of colostrum after birth. Foals are born without much protection against the world outside the uterus. The mare's immune system develops antibodies against what she has encountered in the environment, plus what ... Read full story
 5/1/2009
Washington State Vet Urges WNV Vaccination  *
Horse owners in Washington should take advantage of the vaccines available to prevent West Nile virus, particularly as the state led the nation last year in the number of horses testing positive for the disease. West Nile virus (WNV) is spread by mosquitoes that have fed on an infected bird. It is not spread from horses to other animals. A total of 41 Washington horses were confirmed positive for WNV last year. These included 26 horses in Yakima ... Read full story
 4/22/2009
Vaccination Yearly Planner  *
Immunizations are the cornerstone of disease prevention if given appropriately and in a timely manner. One of the brightest spots of equine medical care for horses is the availability of many safe and effective vaccines to protect horses from infectious and noninfectious diseases. Sometimes it is confusing as to which ones your horse might need. Let's look at the vaccine options, the necessity of each, and how to plan for boosters throughout the ... Read full story
 1/1/2009
West Nile Virus DNA Vaccine for Horses Introduced   *
West Nile-Innovator DNA, a vaccine for horses to aid in the prevention of viremia caused by the potentially deadly West Nile virus, was launched by Fort Dodge Animal Health, a division of Wyeth, Dec. 4. Developed in collaboration with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this represents a tremendous milestone in DNA science and vaccine technology, as it is the first DNA vaccine of its kind ever registered and the first DNA vaccine ... Read full story
 12/5/2008
Disease Control Yearly Planner  *
Guard against diseases on your farm year-round by employing these seasonal tips For a horse to perform to his utmost capacity, he must be healthy and sound throughout the year. The smallest details of farm management often have the greatest impact on a horse’s general wellness, and such strategies provide a critical template for minimizing the risk for contracting disease. By being proactive and implementing disease-reducing programs based on risk, ... Read full story
 11/26/2008
University of Florida Veterinarian Troubleshoots West Nile Virus   *
In 2001, University of Florida veterinarian Maureen Long, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, became an authority on West Nile virus by accident. That year, Long and other UF Large Animal Medicine clinicians saw some of the first Florida horses breaking with the mosquito-borne disease. Prior to its arrival in Florida, there had been fewer than 100 cases of the disease diagnosed in the United States. But that year more than 500 horses would break with the disease ... Read full story
 11/10/2008
Eastern Equine Encephalomyelitis Cases Reported In Mississippi  *
This week the Mississippi State Department of Health reported three new cases of Eastern equine encephalomyelitis (EEE), a mosquito-borne virus, bringing the state's total to eight for the year. Three cases of West Nile virus (WNV) have also been confirmed in Mississippi horses this year, according to the state's Web site. The state’s health department confirmed reports of EEE cases in George, Jackson, Jones, Marion, Perry, and Stone Counties, and ... Read full story
 10/26/2008
Kentucky Reports Fourth WNV Case of 2008 Season   *
A fourth horse in Kentucky has tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). According to a notification released by the state veterinarian's office, the 7-year-old Tennessee Walking Horse had been partially vaccinated against the disease. It had received a single shot on Aug. 28. The horse started showing clinical signs Sept. 30. As of Oct. 15, it had some ongoing mild ataxia in its hind limbs. The animal is located in Todd County, in the southwest ... Read full story
 10/17/2008
Two Texas Horses Positive for EEE  *
Texas has joined at least five other states this year in reporting cases of Eastern equine encephalitis infection in horses. In Houston County, in the southeast corner of the state, a horse with clinical illness has tested positive for the disease, and in Denton County, north central Texas, a vaccinated horse also tested positive and exhibited clinical signs of disease. EEE, which can be transmitted to humans by infected mosquitoes, also has been ... Read full story
 10/10/2008
Washington Horse Owners Beware: West Nile Virus Lurking  *
The Washington state Department of Health reported two additonal horses have tested positive for West Nile virus. There also have been additional dead birds in Lewis and Pierce Counties that tested positive. Earlier this year West Nile virus-positive dead birds were reported in King, Benton, and Thurston Counties. ... Read full story
 10/5/2008
Kentucky Reports Second Equine West Nile Virus Case  *
A second Kentucky horse has been confirmed as positive for West Nile virus, animal health officials announced. The affected animal is a 17-month-old Tennessee Walking Horse from Adair County, in the south-central portion of the state. This horse was not vaccinated. It was alive and showing improvement at the time of the Oct. 1 report. The first case in the state in 2008 was reported Sept. 18. This horse, which lives in Christian County, was not ... Read full story
 10/1/2008
Third Kentucky Horse has West Nile Virus  *
A third horse in Kentucky has been confirmed positive for West Nile virus. Two other cases have been reported thus far this year, with the second reported just hours before the third. The cases all occurred within different counties. The third affected animal is a 7-year-old Quarter Horse in Pendleton County, which is in the north-central area of the state. According to a report circulated by animal health officials, it had mild rear limb ataxia. ... Read full story
 10/1/2008
Number of Human West Nile Virus Cases Lowest in Years  *
The West Nile virus season is on track to be the mildest in seven years, with less than a third the number of serious human cases as last year's total, U.S. health officials said. As of Tuesday, there were 368 severe human cases, with 18 deaths, according to preliminary reports. Mississippi and California were hardest hit, together accounting for nearly half the cases. Most West Nile infections are reported in August and September, so health ... Read full story
 9/30/2008
Kentucky Reports First Equine West Nile Virus Case of 2008  *
Kentucky agriculture officials announced today that a 9-year-old Saddlebred gelding has been confirmed positive for West Nile virus (WNV). This is the first WNV case in the state so far this year. The affected horse lives in Christian County, in the southwest portion of the state. According to the statement released by the Kentucky State Veterinarian's Office, the horse started showing clinical signs Sept. 5. It had not been vaccinated. As of Sept. ... Read full story
 9/18/2008
Tennessee Officials Urge Horse Owners to Protect Against EEE  *
The Tennessee Departments of Agriculture and Health this month urged horse owners to protect their horses from mosquitoes and to review vaccination records for Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) and other mosquito-borne diseases including West Nile Virus (WNV). "Outbreaks of viral encephalitis in horses are a seasonal occurrence due to the prevalence of mosquitoes in late summer and early fall," said Ron Wilson, DVM, Dipl. ACVP, state veterinarian ... Read full story
 8/30/2008
Wisconsin Horses Positive for EEE, WNV  *
A horse in Dodge County, Wisc., has died from Eastern equine encephalomyelitis (EEE), a mosquito-borne disease that is easily prevented by vaccination. A yearling Quarter Horse died from EEE in Juneau July 28, one day after it showed neurologic signs consistent with the virus. The horse had not been vaccinated against the disease and the diagnosis was confirmed via laboratory testing. There have also been two cases of West Nile virus, another ... Read full story
 8/12/2008
WNV Reported in Washington Horses   *
West Nile virus (WNV), a potentially fatal disease in equines, has been confirmed in two horses, one in Moses Lake and the other in the Toppenish area, according to a statement released by the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA). These are the first confirmed cases this year of horses contracting West Nile virus in Washington. Last year, eight horses were confirmed for the disease, all in Yakima County. Washington State University's ... Read full story
 8/5/2008
West Nile Incidence and Vaccination, 1999-2007   *
West Nile virus (WNV), an arbovirus endemic in North America, is the causative agent of West Nile equine encephalomyelitis (WNEE) and an important consideration in the differential diagnosis of horses with signs of neurologic disease. West Nile virus vaccination is important in the prevention of WNEE and is considered one of the core equine vaccinations by the American Association of Equine Practitioners. Core equine vaccinations are those indicated ... Read full story
 7/27/2008
New Mexico Horse Tests Positive for West Nile Virus  *
A horse from McKinley County, N.M., has tested positive for West Nile virus, the first positive test for the virus in a horse this year. That word from the state health department. New Mexico has reported no human cases of West Nile virus this year. The state public health veterinarian for the Department of Health, Dr. Paul Ettestad, says the positive test indicates there are mosquitoes infected with the virus in the McKinley County area. The ... Read full story
 7/20/2008
Iowa State University Vets: Protect Horses from WNV  *
The time to protect horses from West Nile virus (WNV) is now, said David Wong, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVIM, assistant professor of equine medicine at Iowa State University's Veterinary Medical Center. "The peak of West Nile season is August and September," said Wong. "Horse owners should have their animals vaccinated now to protect them against the virus." West Nile virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne illness that first hit the East Coast in 1999 and spread ... Read full story
 7/7/2008
First California Equine WNV Case of 2008 Reported   *
The first positive equine case of West Nile virus in California in 2008 has been reported in Riverside County. The affected horse, a 15-year-old Quarter Horse gelding, died. West Nile virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne virus that was first detected in the United States in 1999 in the New York City area. It can cause a wide range of clinical illnesses from mild, "flu-like" symptoms to encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) that can be fatal to both ... Read full story
 6/24/2008
South Dakota Horse Owners Reminded to Vaccinate Against WNV  *
Although the number of cases of WNV in South Dakota's horses has gone down significantly in recent years, this decline can be largely attributed to the success of the vaccine, according to South Dakota State University Extension Veterinarian Russ Daly, DVM. The mosquito-transmitted disease is still a threat in South Dakota, and non-vaccinated horses are still at risk. Last year, eight horses with laboratory-confirmed West Nile virus infection were ... Read full story
 5/22/2008
Vaccination Guidelines  *
Spring means vaccination time. In 2008, the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) Infectious Disease Committee released a revised online version of their "Guidelines for the Vaccination of Horses." Developing a vaccination schedule is not as straightforward as it sounds. So much of what you should vaccinate for depends upon such factors as where you live, how often your horse travels, how old he is, his vaccination history, and what ... Read full story
 4/21/2008
West Nile Virus 'Hot Spots' Identified in Texas  *
In a recently published study Texas A&M University veterinarians identified two "hot spots" of West Nile virus (WNV) based on data they collected between 2002 and 2004. One of these spots is in northwestern Texas and the other in an eastern region of the state. Mapping areas in which WNV is concentrated enables veterinarians to institute disease control and prevention programs via targeted surveillance and owner education. West Nile virus ... Read full story
 4/10/2008
Florida Official Urges EEE Vaccination; 9 Deaths Reported  *
Florida horse owners are being urged to take advantage of the vaccines available to protect their animals against Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) and West Nile virus, said Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner Charles H. Bronson. As the weather in Florida warms up, the mosquito populations will increase as will the potential for mosquito-borne diseases. Already, nine cases of EEE have been confirmed in Florida since the beginning ... Read full story
 3/21/2008
Dealing with Emerging Infectious Diseases  *
Scientists are becoming increasingly concerned about the marked and persistent development of emerging infectious diseases--infections that are new to a population or geographic area, have appeared more frequently, or have become more virulent (able to cause disease). Within the past two decades, the list of emerging infectious diseases and pathogens of clinical relevance to the equine industry has expanded and now includes: the equine herpesvirus-1 ... Read full story
 3/5/2008
Antibodies to WNV Common in Arab Emirate Horses  *
Researchers found antibodies to West Nile virus (WNV) in nearly 20% of horses recently tested in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), according to Ulrich Wernery, DVM, PhD, scientific director of the Central Veterinary Research Laboratory in Dubai and author of the Dubai-based study published in Wildlife Middle East. The testing was initiated after one horse showed clinical signs of encephalitis. "We were really astonished, especially to see only ... Read full story
 1/18/2008
Study: Light-Colored Horses at Higher Risk of Dying from West Nile Virus  *
Researchers at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in Saskatchewan, Canada, recently published a study indicating that light-colored horses diagnosed with West Nile virus (WNV) might be more likely to succumb to the disease than their darker counterparts. Horses included in the study were divided into three groups based on coat color: dark (chestnut, bay, black, brown, and sorrel), light (gray, white, palomino, buckskin, and dun), or multicolored ... Read full story
 1/3/2008
New Variables Identified as West Nile Risk Factors  *
Based on a recent retrospective study performed at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in Saskatchewan, Canada, three major risk factors that are completely outside of a horse owner's control contribute to the mortality rate of West Nile virus disease in horses: sex, time of infection, and coat color. West Nile virus is transmitted to horses from mosquitoes. Once bitten, horses can either eliminate the virus uneventfully or become infected. ... Read full story
 12/22/2007
Two New West Nile Virus Cases in Kentucky  *
The Kentucky state veterinarian's office reported today (Oct. 30) that the fourth and fifth cases of West Nile virus have been identified in the state. Four of the five cases this year have survived and one was euthanatized. None of the affected horses was vaccinated. The most recent cases were an 8-year-old Quarter Horse mare in Daviess County and a 9-year-old pony gelding in Nelson County. Both are still alive. Taylor, Clark, and Mason Counties ... Read full story
 10/30/2007
Mississippi State Reports Surge in EEE, WNV Cases   *
Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) and West Nile virus (WNV) have hit Mississippi's horses hard this year, with EEE case numbers surging to more than double 2006 levels. According to State Veterinarian Jim Watson, DVM, there have been 27 cases of EEE and 11 of WNV thus far. Watson said there's no clear reason why the incidence of the mosquito-borne viruses has increased, especially given the exceptionally dry conditions experienced in much of the ... Read full story
 10/15/2007
West Nile Virus Presentation Available on TheHorse.com   *
A free web-based seminar ("Webinar") on West Nile virus hosted by The Horse on Oct. 2, 2007 is now archived and available in TheHorse'com's Video Library. Nearly 1,400 people registered for the presentation, which included streamed video, audio, and a slide presentation featuring Debra C. Sellon DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, a professor of Equine Medicine at Washington State University. Sellon, along with Maureen Long, DVM, MS, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, an assistant ... Read full story
 10/3/2007
Wisconsin Horse Positive for West Nile Virus  *
A Racine County, Wisconson, horse has tested positive for West Nile virus. The Caledonia and Mount Pleasant Health Department says it's the first documented case this year of the mosquito-borne disease in Racine County. Health officer Margaret Gesner says the 5-year-old Welsh pony was euthanized Sept. 16. In order to help horse owners better understand this disease, host TheHorse.com and sponsor Intervet presented an educational Webinar on Tuesday, ... Read full story
 9/29/2007
Webinar: Understanding West Nile Virus
Since West Nile virus emerged in the United States in 1999, more than 24,671 horses have been infected. Fall is when horse owners and veterinarians most often see this deadly virus emerge. To help horse owners better understand this disease, host TheHorse.com and sponsor Intervet presented the on-demand educational webinar "Understanding West Nile Virus" on Oct. 2, 2007. The archived webinar is now available for free download in TheHorse.com's Video ... Read full story
 9/25/2007
WNV: Montana, California Leading Country in Equine Cases   *
As of September 11, Montana and California had reported the highest number of equine West Nile virus (WNV) cases so far this year with 24 and 19, respectively. The USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service tracks equine arboviruses through the National Animal Health Surveillance System (NAHSS). Other states reporting numerous cases included: Colorado (16); Texas (16); Missouri (13); New Mexico (11). Reports detailing the incidence ... Read full story
 9/19/2007
Equine West Nile Virus Case Reported in Kentucky  *
A 10-year-old Quarter Horse gelding is Kentucky’s first West Nile virus (WNV) case of 2007, according to Rusty Ford, Equine Programs manager with the Kentucky State Veterinarian's office. The horse is from Mason County. He was not vaccinated, but was reported alive and improving as of Sept. 14. There were 18 confirmed equine cases of WNV on 17 premises in Kentucky in 2006. For more information, including a map showing the affected horse’s location, ... Read full story
 9/15/2007
UC Davis: Gene Mutation Turned WNV into Killer Disease among Crows  *
A gene mutation that appears to be responsible for changing relatively mild forms of the West Nile virus into a highly virulent and deadly disease in American crows has been identified by a team of scientists led by a researcher at the University of California, Davis. Because it is highly susceptible to West Nile virus, the American crow has served as the major sentinel species, playing an important role in alerting scientists and health professionals ... Read full story
 8/21/2007
WNV, EEE Found in Massachusetts Mosquitoes  *
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MPH) announced Aug. 10 that Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) virus and West Nile virus (WNV) have been detected in mosquitoes in Bristol, Norfolk, and Suffolk counties. According to the MPH statement, there have been five positive mosquito samples for EEE so far this year, compared with 50 positive samples at this time last summer. According to the equine arbovirus reports compiled by the USDA's ... Read full story
 8/10/2007
California Declares WNV Emergency in Three Counties   *
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger declared a state of emergency Thursday in three California counties hit hard by the mosquito-borne West Nile virus, which has killed four people this year and appears to be spreading at a rapid clip. The emergency declaration applies to Kern, Colusa, and San Joaquin counties, and will provide up to $1.35 million to help combat the spread of the virus, Schwarzenegger said. West Nile is transmitted to humans through mosquito ... Read full story
 8/3/2007
Oklahoma Horse Owners Urged to Vaccinate Animals Against WNV  *
Oklahoma state veterinarians are encouraging horse owners to have their animals vaccinated against the potentially deadly West Nile virus. The virus is carried by mosquitoes and officials say because of the rainy summer mosquitoes are prevalent and the virus season is likely to extend into October. Assistant state veterinarian Michael Herrin, DVM, says there are about 250,000 horses in Oklahoma and since 2002 more than 1,100 horses have contracted ... Read full story
 7/28/2007
Two Montana Horses Contract WNV  *
Montana's acting state veterinarian says West Nile virus has been confirmed in horses in Blaine and Phillips counties. Jeanne Rankin says neither of the two horses was vaccinated against the disease; and both are still alive. The virus is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito, which became infected by feeding on infected birds. Mosquitoes captured near Great Falls have tested positive for West Nile virus. And at least 200 young pelicans, ... Read full story
 7/28/2007
CDC: Human West Nile Virus Cases Off to a Fast Start   *
The nation is on pace to have its worst West Nile virus (WNV) season in years, federal health officials said Thursday (July 26). "If this trend continues like this, it's going to be a very high," said Dr. Lyle Petersen of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. At least 177 people died from West Nile virus in 2006 out of 4,269 cases; 264 people died out of nearly 10,000 cases in 2003. A variety of signs say this could be a bad ... Read full story
 7/27/2007
Equine Cases of EEE and WNV Confirmed in Virginia  *
Virginia's state veterinarian confirmed on Wednesday (July 24) the first cases of Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) and West Nile virus (WNV) in horses this year. The EEE-positive horse was from Suffolk and was euthanatized because of its illness on June 26. The WNV-positive horse is from Rockingham County, and developed clinical signs on June 23. That horse has since recovered. In 2006, there were no equine cases of EEE in Virginia, and only one ... Read full story
 7/26/2007
Texas: Water Everywhere Raises Risk of Livestock Disease  *
Rushing water, stagnant ponds, or even sudden dry stages after wet periods can lead to outbreaks of livestock disease. Mosquitoes and biting flies, capable of carrying and transmitting diseases, thrive in the damp weather. Prolonged wet periods can also bring anthrax spores to the surface, making them a threat to livestock and wildlife after pastures dry. Horse owners should take precautions against mosquito-transmitted diseases by having their ... Read full story
 7/16/2007
Flooded Plains States: Drying Out, Bracing for Mosquito-Borne Equine Diseases   *
The waters might be receding, but horse owners in Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, and other areas affected by recent flooding shouldn't drop their guard against flood-related problems just yet. Veterinary authorities say owners in the soggy states should prepare for a potential surge in cases of mosquito-borne equine diseases, such as Eastern and Western equine encephalitis (EEE and WEE), West Nile virus (WNV), and equine infectious anemia (EIA). The ... Read full story
 7/12/2007
West Nile Virus Found in New Mexico Horse   *
A horse in Lea County, N.M., has been confirmed with the West Nile virus, a mosquito-borne illness that also can strike humans. It was the first case in a horse in New Mexico this year, the state Department of Health said. There have been no human cases this year. The yearling filly was brought in late last month, so weak it could no longer stand, and was destroyed, said Dr. Mary Cap, a veterinarian with Mountain States Equine in Hobbs. She said ... Read full story
 7/4/2007
West Nile Virus Showing Up Across the Country  *
With some areas of the country having excess rainfall, and many parts moving into prime West Nile virus season, many government officials are warning humans to take precautions against the deadly disease. West Nile virus cases in humans have been reported already this season in Colorado, North Dakota, California, Iowa, Mississippi, and South Dakota. As of June 12, avian, animal, or mosquito WNV infections were reported to the Centers for Disease ... Read full story
 7/1/2007
Researchers Test WNV Vaccines  *
In a recent study, University of Florida researchers evaluated the effectiveness of three commercially available equine West Nile virus (WNV) vaccines. While all vaccinated horses, irrespective of the vaccine administered, did not develop viremia and all survived a severe challenge model of WNV-induced encephalomyelitis (in this case, WNV was introduced directly into the spinal fluid), only the chimera-vaccinated horses did not develop any clinical ... Read full story
 6/30/2007
West Nile Virus Detected in Idaho  *
West Nile virus (WNV) has been found in mosquitoes in southwest Idaho, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported. Mosquitoes in Gem County tested positive for the virus June 8. It is the first time this year the virus has been detected in Idaho. Last year, the virus was found in 38 Idaho counties, infecting about 1,000 people and leading to 23 deaths. The virus is passed through the bite of infected mosquitoes. "Idaho led the nation ... Read full story
 6/16/2007
WNV: Pennsylvania Reports First Positive Mosquito of 2007  *
Pennsylvania state officials reported June 12 that the first mosquito sample positive for the West Nile virus in the state this year has been found in Blair Township, Blair County. "As with people, animals become infected with the West Nile virus only after being bitten by an infected mosquito," Agriculture Secretary Dennis Wolff said. "Horses are most susceptible to illness after exposure, and we will continue to work with veterinarians and horse ... Read full story
 6/12/2007
West Nile Virus Appearing in Washington Horses   *
In 2002, Washington confirmed its first two equine cases of West Nile virus (WNV) in Pierce and Thurston counties. The disease was not seen again until 2005, when one positive horse was found in Yakima County. In 2006, six cases were confirmed, the first during August in a horse from Yakima County. By the year's end, four others were diagnosed from Yakima County and one from King County. Nationwide, there were 1,035 equine cases of WNV reported ... Read full story
 6/8/2007
WNV: Some East Coast Bird Populations Wiped Out   *
Birds that once flourished in suburban skies, including robins, bluebirds and crows, have been devastated by West Nile virus, a new study has found. Populations of seven species have suffered dramatic declines across the continent since West Nile first emerged in the United States in 1999, according to a first-of-its-kind study. The research, published May 17 by the journal Nature, compared 26 years of bird breeding surveys to quantify what had ... Read full story
 5/31/2007
WNV: Oregon Braces for Surge in Cases  *
Based on the pattern of the disease's spread, Oregon might see a sharp increase in the humans who get West Nile virus in 2007, health officials say. When the virus crosses state boundaries, officials said, it typically results in a few cases the first year, followed by a surge a year or two later. Four of Oregon's first six human cases were in Malheur County in 2004. In 2006, the number of human cases in the county ballooned to 55 of the state's ... Read full story
 5/19/2007
WNV: Illinois Horse Owners Advised to Vaccinate Animals  *
The Illinois Department of Agriculture released a statement last week reminding horse owners to vaccinate their animals before the onset of mosquito season to protect against West Nile virus (WNV). "Many horses infected with WNV never develop the illness, but it can be very serious--even fatal--if they are not protected," Colleen O'Keefe, DVM, IDOA division manager of Food Safety and Animal Protection, said. "During the 1999-2000 outbreak, 38% ... Read full story
 5/14/2007
Wet Spring in Kansas Raises Concerns About Mosquito Numbers  *
Health authorities hope Kansas' wet weather this spring doesn't translate into a surge in mosquito numbers. "It's going to depend on temperature, how long the water stays on the ground, things like that," said Ludek Zurek, an assistant professor of entomology at Kansas State University. "If it's standing water, there is a chance there might be an increase in mosquitoes," Zurek said. But as long as water is moving, even slowly, "that's good enough ... Read full story
 5/12/2007
West Nile Virus: Delaware Residents Asked to Report Dead Birds to State   *
The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control's Mosquito Control Section is again asking for the public's help in monitoring West Nile virus (WNV) by reporting sick or dead wild birds that might have contracted the virus. West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne disease of considerable concern to human health and unvaccinated horses. Beginning Monday, April 23, Mosquito Control requests that the public report only sick or dead ... Read full story
 4/23/2007
West Nile Virus Continues to be a Threat  *
With spring here and temperatures on the rise throughout the country, growing mosquito populations increase the risk for mosquito-borne diseases, including West Nile virus and equine encephalomyelitis (sleeping sickness). To protect their horses from these diseases, owners are encouraged to vaccinate as part of a comprehensive prevention program. Unseasonably warm winter weather, which has been experienced in many parts of the country, may lead ... Read full story
 4/5/2007
AAEP Convention 2006: Medicine  *
Uplifting Applications for UC Davis Large Animal Lift John Madigan, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVIM, professor of medicine and epidemiology and section chief of equine medicine at the University of California, Davis, developed the UC Davis Large Animal Lift (LAL) with colleagues over the last several years. He reported on the lift's applications and success stories in its first months of use, calling the lift "a necessary piece of equipment for every large ... Read full story
 3/1/2007
NAHMS: Most Commonly Used Equine Vaccine Type in U.S. is West Nile Virus  *
Equine operation managers surveyed for the National Animal Health Monitoring System's (NAHMS) Equine 2005 study report that West Nile virus (WNV) vaccines are the most common vaccine administered to horses at their facilities. More than 85% of operation managers reported giving vaccines against WNV. Of the farms that did not vaccinate against WNV, 53.1% of managers said the reason was that their animals were at a low risk of exposure. "Effort ... Read full story
 12/3/2006
West Nile Virus Detected in France  *
French veterinary officials have reported the confirmation of the country's first equine West Nile virus (WNV) case in two years. The case was detected in Pyrenees-Orientales (southern France) on a farm located at Argeles-sur-mer. There were 15 susceptible horses on the farm, but only one horse developed illness. The horse is recovering, and it is assumed that it contracted the disease from vectors. West Nile virus was confirmed on ELISA tests ... Read full story
 10/11/2006
Kentucky's WNV Case Count Rises to 15  *
The Office of the State Veterinarian in Kentucky reported an additional equine case of West Nile virus (WNV) today. This brings the total for 2006 to 15 cases. The 3-year-old Quarter Horse gelding in Webster County began showing signs of WNV on Sept. 21 and remains alive. He had no history of WNV vaccination. The diagnosis was based on both the horse's clinical signs and blood testing (WNV IgM > 400). Tests were conducted last week at the Breathitt ... Read full story
 10/2/2006
Idaho Leads Nation in Equine WNV Cases  *
As West Nile virus (WNV) continues to appear across the United States this mosquito season, Idaho horses are being hit hard. More than 300 horses have been diagnosed with the illness in 2006. Marilyn Simunich, DVM, of the Idaho Animal Health Laboratory, has been gathering histories on the infected horses. "We call the vet offices and ask if the horse was vaccinated, and over 86% (of the infected horses) never had any vaccinations, 15% had maybe ... Read full story
 9/29/2006
British Columbia's First Equine WNV Case Likely Imported  *
A Canadian news service reports that British Columbia health authorities have recorded the detection of the province's first animal case of West Nile virus—a horse. However, the horse likely contracted the illness during a recent visit to Colorado. Northern Interior Medical Health Officer Lorna Medd, MD, told cbc.com the horse was recovering. Twenty people in British Columbia have been diagnosed with WNV, but they are all thought to have picked ... Read full story
 9/25/2006
West Nile Virus Cases in Horses Continue to Climb  *
According to the most recent figures from the U.S. Geological Survey, more than 670 cases of West Nile Virus disease in horses have been reported this year.1 As the number of cases continues to grow, states west of the Mississippi River--including California, Idaho, Missouri and Utah--have been especially hard hit, accounting for about 80% of the total reported cases.1 In some heavily affected states, such as Missouri, the number of cases to date ... Read full story
 9/25/2006
Kentucky's 14th WNV Case Confirmed  *
The Kentucky State Veterinarian's office announced today (Sept. 20) the 14th confirmed case of West Nile virus (WNV) in the state. Rusty Ford, Equine Programs Manager, said an 8-year-old Thoroughbred filly was euthanatized in Lincoln County. Onset of her clinical signs was Sept. 9, and she had no history of vaccination. Ford said historically, Kentucky WNV cases peak this time of year. Vaccination of all equids is encouraged. Updated information ... Read full story
 9/20/2006
WNV-Infected Horses Not a Predictor for Humans  *
A Canadian study concluded that horses infected with West Nile virus (WNV) were not a reliable indicator for future human infections. The study was published in the June issue of Preventive Veterinary Medicine. Researchers at the University of Saskatchewan reviewed 133 horse and 947 human WNV cases in Saskatchewan during the area's 2003 WNV outbreak. They found that in most areas, clusters of human cases were not preceded by horse clusters. The ... Read full story
 9/19/2006
Kentucky's 13th WNV Case Confirmed  *
Three Kentucky horses were confirmed as having West Nile virus (WNV) today (Sept. 19), bringing to total for 2006 to 13, according to Rusty Ford, Equine Programs Manager, Kentucky State Veterinarian's office. None of the horses were vaccinated; all are still alive. One horse was an 8-year-old Quarter Horse gelding in Fulton County, onset of clinical signs Sept. 12. One premise in Todd County had two confirmed cases, a 20-year-old Paint gelding ... Read full story
 9/19/2006
Two More WNV Cases in Kentucky  *
West Nile virus (WNV) remains on the radar of Kentucky agriculture officials; two new equine cases were confirmed Friday (Sept. 8). Nine horses have been infected with the disease in 2006. A 4-year-old Rocky Mountain Horse mare in Adair County showed signs of the disease on Sept. 2 and was subsequently euthanatized. She had no WNV vaccination history. The second horse, a 1-year-old Quarter Horse filly with no vaccination history, had a disease ... Read full story
 9/9/2006
Intervet Introduces PreveNile WNV Vaccine   *
Intervet Inc. has announced the availability of PreveNile. The new modified-live vaccine (MLV) for horses is the first one-dose West Nile virus (WNV) vaccine available for primary immunization. "PreveNile offers the most advanced WNV technology available for horses," says Marv Jahde, Intervet's Marketing Manager of Equine Products. "PreveNile is the first and only one-dose USDA-approved equine WNV vaccine labeled for prevention of viremia and as ... Read full story
 9/5/2006
Seventh WNV Positive Kentucky Horse  *
Results of diagnostic testing received today from the University of Kentucky Livestock Disease Diagnostic Center on Friday, Sept. 1, confirmed the diagnosis of the seventh case of West Nile virus (WNV) in Kentucky this year, according to Rusty Ford, Equine Programs Manager in the Kentucky State Veterinarian's office. A 2-year-old Tennessee walking horse filly was euthanized due to complications of WNV. Onset of clinical signs was Aug. 21. She had ... Read full story
 9/2/2006
West Nile Virus in 31 States  *
Thirty-one states have reported detecting West Nile virus (WNV) in 2006, according to the latest data reported on the U.S. Geological Survey web site (last updated July 25). The disease has infected horses in 10 states: Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, North Dakota, Texas, Utah, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Human cases have been reported in California, Colorado, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, South Dakota, Texas, ... Read full story
 9/1/2006
Sixth Kentucky WNV Case Confirmed  *
The Kentucky State Veterinarian's office today (Aug. 30) confirmed the sixth case of West Nile virus in the state this year. A 6-year-old Belgian gelding in Christian County was euthanatized due to complications of the disease, noted Rusty Ford, Equine Programs Manager in the state veterinarian's office. The gelding had not been vaccinated. Onset of clinical signs was Aug. 23. Of the six Kentucky cases confirmed this year, none were vaccinated, ... Read full story
 8/30/2006
Fifth WNV Case in Kentucky  *
A new case of West Nile virus (WNV) was confirmed today (Aug. 24) in Nelson County, Kentucky, according to Rusty Ford, Equine Programs Manager in the Kentucky State Veterinarian's office. This is the second WNV case confirmed in that county, and the fifth confirmed in the state this year. The yearling Morgan colt was euthanatized. Onset of his clinical signs was Aug. 10. Of the five Kentucky cases confirmed this year, none were vaccinated, and ... Read full story
 8/24/2006
Special Reports
Our Special Reports are PDF files (including images and in some cases video) on many aspects of horse health care. We hope you enjoy these educational articles! NEW! Breathing, Stride, and Jumping Performance (Sponsored by FLAIR Nasal Strips) 2008 American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention Coverage (Sponsored by Arenus) February Issue 2009 January Issue 2009 Equine Herpesvirus 2008 (Sponsored by Fort Dodge Animal Health) 2008 ... Read full story
 8/24/2006
Two More Equine WNV Cases in Kentucky  *
The Kentucky State Veterinarian's office announced today (Aug. 23) that two more cases of West Nile virus (WNV) in horses have been confirmed, bringing the total equine case count to four. "Results of testing received today from the Breathitt Veterinary Center confirm the diagnosis of West Nile virus having affected two additional horses," said Rusty Ford, equine programs manager in the State Veterinarian's office. "The diagnosis is based on compatible ... Read full story
 8/23/2006
WNV Reported in Michigan Horse  *
Michigan's State Veterinarian Dr. Steve Halstead today announced the state's first case of West Nile Virus (WNV) in a horse for 2006. The horse was a 3-year old gelding from Washtenaw County. Dr. Halstead urges residents to take precautions that include preventing mosquito exposure during late summer outdoor activities and vaccinating horses. The virus is spread by mosquitoes that have fed on wild birds infected with the virus. Many birds are able ... Read full story
 8/18/2006
Five Montana Horses Diagnosed with WNV  *
West Nile virus (WNV) has been confirmed in horses in five Montana counties, state Livestock Department officials said Wednesday (Aug. 16). Horses in Cascade, Glacier, Phillips and Yellowstone counties and a second horse in Flathead County were diagnosed recently, said Dr. Jeanne Rankin, assistant state veterinarian. The first confirmed case, a 2-year-old stallion in Flathead County, had not been vaccinated and was euthanized on July 22. Ages ... Read full story
 8/17/2006
West Nile Virus in 24 States  *
Twenty-four states have reported detecting West Nile virus (WNV) in 2006, according to the latest data reported on the U.S. Geological Survey web site (last updated June 27). The disease has infected horses in four states: Iowa, North Dakota, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Human cases have been reported from Colorado, Mississippi, and Texas, and according to the Centers for Disease Control, no human fatalities due to WNV have been reported this year. Officials ... Read full story
 7/10/2006
Equine WNV Case Detected in Wyoming  *
Today's online edition of the Casper Star-Tribune reports that Wyoming has logged its first animal case of West Nile virus (WNV) for 2006. The disease was confirmed in the Campbell County horse on Friday (June 9). According to USDA surveillance information, 30 equine WNV cases were recorded in Wyoming in 2005. Information on WNV in Wyoming and educational posters can be found at www.badskeeter.org. ... Read full story
 6/13/2006
Illinois Logs First Avian WNV Case for 2006  *
(Edited press release) The Illinois Department of Public Health has announced its first avian West Nile virus (WNV) finding for 2006. Dr. Eric E. Whitaker, state public health director, said a crow collected by the DeWitt/Piatt Bi-County Health Department had WNV.The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) was notified by the DeWitt/Piatt Bi-County Health Department of the findings as part of its routine WNV surveillance.The positive crow was ... Read full story
 6/7/2006
New Hampshire Begins 2006 Testing for EEE, WNV  *
The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services' Division of Public Health Services (DPHS) this week announced the beginning of statewide Eastern Equine encephalitis (EEE) and West Nile virus (WNV) surveillance season. The bird testing portion of the season runs from June 1 to October 31. Last year, seven people tested positive for EEE, with two deaths. Additionally, 54 birds, nine horses, four alpacas, a llama and 15 mosquito pools tested ... Read full story
 6/2/2006
West Nile Virus Treatment Trial Begins  *
GenoMed, a medical genomics company, is seeking horses to participate in a free trial to test a medical protocol for treating West Nile virus (WNV). David W. Moskowitz, MD, MA, FACP, chairman, CEO, and chief medical officer for GenoMed, said the treatment protocol has already been successful in limited human trials. The treatment uses either angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors if the horse's blood pressure is high or angiotensin II receptor ... Read full story
 6/1/2006
Mosquito Season Brings West Nile Risk to Humans, Horses  *
Wear Insect Repellant, Eliminate Standing Water to keep Mosquitoes Away Pennsylvania state officials recently reminded residents to take precautions against West Nile virus during the upcoming mosquito season. "It's that time of the year again for people to take steps to reduce their risk of becoming infected with West Nile virus," says Pennsylvania Health Secretary Dr. Calvin B. Johnson. "If you are going to be outside, remember to use insect ... Read full story
 5/25/2006
The Buzz On Mosquitoes   *
Mosquito control experts and human health authorities are concerned that Americans are becoming complacent about protecting themselves and their horses against West Nile virus (WNV). They discussed this trend and new mosquito control techniques to prevent the spread of mosquito-borne illnesses at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) West Nile virus meeting held Feb. 23-24 in San Francisco, Calif., and the American Mosquito Control ... Read full story
 5/3/2006
WNV: A Threat to Unvaccinated Horses   *
As spring approaches and temperatures rise, growing mosquito populations will increase the risk for deadly mosquito-borne diseases, including West Nile virus (WNV) and equine encephalomyelitis (sleeping sickness). Since its discovery in the United States in 1999, WNV has spread rapidly across the country and poses a significant health threat to humans, horses, and other animals. "The North American West Nile virus epidemic persists," said Lyle ... Read full story
 4/24/2006
A New Model for Predicting Outbreaks of West Nile Virus  *
Infectious diseases were wreaking widespread havoc long before scientists had any idea what caused them. But knowing the pathogenic agents behind today's scourges is just the first step in protecting against deadly outbreaks. Roughly 75% of emerging infectious diseases are zoonotic--humans contract them either directly from infected animals or through vectors that feed on infected animals. West Nile virus is the biggest threat in North America, where ... Read full story
 4/24/2006
Human WNV Vaccine Tested   *
A team of U.S. and U.K. researchers have shown that an experimental West Nile virus (WNV) vaccine shows promise in protecting humans from the arbovirus. The study abstract appeared online April 14 in the early edition of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America. According to the scientists, the vaccine is a "live, attenuated recombinant vaccine constructed from an infectious clone of yellow fever (YF) 17D ... Read full story
 4/18/2006
Ohio Health Officials Begin WNV Surveillance Season  *
According to the online edition of the Bucyrus Telegraph Forum (www.bucyrustelegraphforum.com), the Ohio Department of Health began accepting dead bird submissions today (April 17) from local health departments to screen for West Nile virus (WNV). West Nile virus is spread via bites from infected mosquitoes. The mosquitoes feed on birds, which become amplifiers of the virus. (Therefore, birds are good sentinels for the virus.) The virus particles ... Read full story
 4/17/2006
WNV Treatment Trial Begins  *
GenoMed, a medical genomics company, is seeking horses to participate in a free trial to test a medical protocol for treating West Nile virus (WNV). David W. Moskowitz, MD, MA, FACP, chairman, CEO, and chief medical officer for GenoMed, said the treatment protocol has already been successful in limited human trials. The treatment uses either angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors if the horse's blood pressure is high or angiotensin II receptor ... Read full story
 4/17/2006
Kentucky's EIA and West Nile Surveillance Program  *
During 2005, a total of 121,813 samples were tested for equine infectious anemia (EIA). For the first time since regulatory testing was initiated in the 1970s, no positive animals were identified (Figure 1). Private testing accounted for 101,650 samples to comply with state regulations regarding the sale and exhibition of equine in Kentucky or to meet interstate transportation requirements. Through market surveillance or other testing, 20,163 samples ... Read full story
 4/14/2006
Decreasing Risk--Utilizing Industry-Based Standards of Care  *
Adverse animal health events do not occur randomly. Usually, there are identifiable causal--and possibly preventable--factors that can influence the development of disease. Depending upon whether the risk factors are already known or identified subsequent to a disease event, the management of a disease becomes basically one of either prevention or response. For new or emerging disease conditions, it is likely that the identification of risk factors ... Read full story
 4/12/2006
Spring Rains Incite Mosquito Worries in California  *
Mosquito control officials are encouraging San Francisco Bay Area residents to safeguard against West Nile virus (WNV) after rains drenched Santa Clara County during most of March. ABC 7 News reported online that after an unusually wet winter and spring, Santa Clara County vector control warns the year could be a record year for the virus, which is spread by the bites of infected mosquitoes (http://abclocal.go.com/kgo/story?section=local&id=4062851). "The ... Read full story
 4/10/2006
Georgia Neurologic Case Highlights Difficulty of Rule-Outs  *
A 24-year-old pleasure mare in Brunswick, Ga., was recently diagnosed with concurrent infections of equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM) and equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1), both of which can cause clinical signs of neurologic disease. The mare's treating veterinarians have said the neurologic deficits the mare has shown are likely caused by the EPM more than the EHV-1. No other horse in the mare's barn has shown any signs of illness. This ... Read full story
 2/23/2006
AAEP Convention 2005: Infectious Neurologic Disease  *
Sometimes subtle and often dramatic, infectious neurologic disease cases are things veterinarians never want to see, although most would like to understand them better and more easily recognize them when they appear in clients' horses. From rabies to West Nile virus (WNV), these diseases garnered their own table topic discussion at the 2005 American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention, held Dec. 3-7 in Seattle, Wash. Moderators Debra ... Read full story
 2/17/2006
AAEP Convention 2005: WNV DNA Vaccine Effective in Young Horses   *
Scientists recently showed that the Fort Dodge Animal Health West Nile virus (WNV) DNA vaccine, which is licensed but not yet commercially available, should protect foals from the virus regardless of residual antibodies received at birth from their dams that often interfere with vaccine effectiveness (maternally derived antibodies, or MDA). Prior studies showed protection in yearlings and older horses. Yu-Wei Chiang, PhD, of Fort Dodge, presented ... Read full story
 2/17/2006
Scientists Test Chimera Vaccine   *
A new research model has been successfully used to test a new type of West Nile virus (WNV) vaccine. Maureen Long, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, assistant professor at the University of Florida, proved a chimera vaccine was safe and effective using the model developed by Dick Bowen, DVM, PhD, of Colorado State University. Long presented her findings on Dec. 5, 2005, at the American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention in Seattle, Wash. She said ... Read full story
 2/1/2006
AAEP Convention 2005: Vaccine Efficacy and Controversies  *
"There are a huge number of (vaccine) choices out there and it's hard sometimes to see our way through the forest," said Julia Wilson, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM, associate professor in Veterinary Population Medicine at the University of Minnesota. "What we should be doing is thinking about what the risk is of that disease, not just for the individual horse, but the group of horses it lives with. Think good and hard about how good the vaccine is, its safety, ... Read full story
 2/1/2006
DNA Vaccine Protects Foals from West Nile Virus  *
Scientists recently showed that the West Nile virus (WNV) DNA vaccine, which is licensed but not yet commercially available, should protect foals from the virus regardless of residual antibodies received at birth from their dams that often interfere with vaccine effectiveness. Prior studies showed protection in yearlings and older horses. Yu-Wei Chiang, PhD, of Fort Dodge Animal Health, the company that manufactures the vaccine, presented results ... Read full story
 1/19/2006
Scientists Test Chimera Vaccine  *
A new research model has been developed and successfully used to test a new type of vaccine against West Nile virus (WNV). Maureen Long, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, assistant professor at the University of Florida, proved a chimera WNV vaccine was safe and effective using this new research model developed by Dick Bowen, DVM, PhD, of Colorado State University. Long presented her findings on Dec. 5, 2005, at the American Association of Equine Practitioners ... Read full story
 1/16/2006
EEE Confirmed in Michigan Horses and Deer  *
Four cases of Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) were recently confirmed in two neighboring west Michigan counties, and another in the northeast corner of the Michigan's Lower Peninsula. The disease was also confirmed in three of seven free-ranging white-tailed deer, making Michigan only the second state in the country to detect EEE in cervids. Steve Halstead, DVM, Michigan state veterinarian, suggests that it is not to late in the season for horse ... Read full story
 10/14/2005
Vets Watch for Hurricane-Related Illnesses  *
With water pooling in places that it normally doesn't and sharp debris all around, horse owners can't help but wonder if conditions left by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita will cause an increase in the reports of illnesses such as tetanus, encephalitis, botulism, and Potomac horse fever. Area veterinarians say they haven’t seen an increase of horses exhibiting these diseases, but they're remaining on guard should any hurricane-related cases flare. Shannon ... Read full story
 10/12/2005
Study Might Link American Robins To West Nile Virus   *
A recent DNA study of the blood consumed by 300 mosquitoes in Connecticut over the past three years found that 40% fed on American robins, while only 1% fed on American crows, a known host of West Nile virus (WNV). Theodore Andreadis, MS, PhD, from the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, led the study. Some people now wonder if crows are still major factors in WNV transmission. Bob McLean, PhD, of the National Wildlife Research Center ... Read full story
 10/1/2005
First Equine WNV Case Reported in Virginia  *
Virginia health officials confirmed the state’s first case of equine West Nile virus (WNV) on Sept. 19. The affected 12-year-old Quarter Horse gelding, located in Albemarle County, is currently recovering. The owners had been told when they bought the gelding in the spring that he had been vaccinated, but documentation was never provided. Virginia’s first case comes late in the season, which usually sees cases cropping up in mid-June. "We’ve had ... Read full story
 9/22/2005
Katrina Increases Mosquito Population  *
Katrina Increases Mosquito Population; WNV Outbreak Not Expected The mosquito population of the Hurricane Katrina-affected areas is expected to increase at a staggering rate, according to Joe Conlon, American Mosquito Control Association (AMCA) technical advisor. However, he added the possibility of a West Nile virus (WNV) epidemic is unlikely. "We are not looking for a spike in WNV, or Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) cases, but we have been ... Read full story
 9/19/2005
Three Additional WNV Kentucky Cases  *
Three new cases of West Nile virus (WNV) were reported by the Kentucky Department of Agriculture as of Aug. 29. In Fayette County a 2-year-old Hanovarian filly had onset of symptoms on Sept. 15. She had not been vaccinated, and she is still living. In Fleming County an unvaccinated 5-year-old Tennessee Walking Horse mare was euthanatized after onset of symptoms Aug. 29. In Lincoln County an unvaccinated 18-month-old Tennessee Walking horse colt ... Read full story
 9/16/2005
West Nile Recovery x 3  *
One day, Marla Gilvin heard whinnying uncharacteristic from her 5-year-old Kentucky Mountain mare Cocoa Rain. “I went out to see what she was doing and called her to the barn,” Gilvin recalls. “She didn’t move. Her 4-month-old foal was running circles around her.” Frank Brown, DVM, of Mount Sterling Veterinary Hospital in Mount Sterling, Ky., was summoned. His physical exam found that Co-coa had an uncoordinated gait, generalized weakness, and ... Read full story
 9/1/2005
Death and Destruction  *
West Nile virus (WNV) was first identified in October 1999 because of an alert zoo veterinarian in New York. The epicenter in 2005, as in 2004, is expected to be California. In six short years, a disease that had never been seen before in North America marched across the country like Sherman's army, leaving a path of human and animal death and destruction in its wake. There is no official record of how many horses died from WNV in the past six years. ... Read full story
 9/1/2005
West Nile Virus DNA Vaccine Approved for Horses   *
Commercial vaccines leapt toward state-of-the-art on July 8 when the USDA granted a license for the world's first DNA vaccine for any species. This equine vaccine springs from more than four years of collaborative research between Fort Dodge Animal Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Fort Dodge, CDC, and the USDA jointly announced the achievement on July 18. The West Nile virus (WNV) vaccine, West Nile-Innovator DNA, ... Read full story
 9/1/2005
WNV Patients Have a Long Road Ahead   *
Maureen Long, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, assistant professor of large animal veterinary medicine at the the University of Florida, knows of at least four horses that appeared to make full recoveries from West Nile virus (WNV) before getting sick again, without apparent re-exposure. "We wonder if it's the equivalent to the human post-poliomyelitis syndrome," she says of this condition, in which the patient recovers and later develops spinal cord degeneration ... Read full story
 9/1/2005
WNV: Where Are We Today?   *
Let's face it--we were getting comfortable, perhaps complacent, in our twice-a-year visits from our horse's veterinarians for inoculations against the old, familiar diseases...Eastern and Western equine encephalitis, influenza, rabies, rhino, strangles, and maybe even botulism in some areas of the United States. Then in late summer of 1999, a new virus showed up that was about as welcome as a nasty hoof abscess the day before the championship. It ... Read full story
 9/1/2005
Study Might Link American Robins to West Nile Virus  *
A recent DNA study of the blood consumed by 300 mosquitoes in Connecticut over the past three years found that 40% of them fed on American robins (Turdus migratorius), while only 1% fed on American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos). Theodore Andreadis, MS, PhD, from the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, led the study. He turned his findings over to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Ga. Because of these findings, some ... Read full story
 8/26/2005
WNV Transmission Between Co-Feeding Mosquitoes  *
More than just birds and mosquitoes could play a key role in the spread of West Nile virus (WNV). Scientists recently determined that an uninfected mosquito can get WNV from an infected mosquito when feeding directly next to it on an uninfected mouse. The findings mean the transmission of WNV might be more complex than previously thought; mammals previously considered "dead-end hosts" and those that don’t get WNV infection actually might serve as ... Read full story
 8/25/2005
Practical Mosquito Control  *
In addition to vaccination, mosquito control is critical in protecting your horses against WNV. Here's quick review on controlling mosquito populations in your barn: Eliminate areas of standing water through improved drainage, or treat them with larvacides. Get rid of scrap tires that collect water or drill holes in them; turn over birdbaths, buckets, tarps, plastic wading pools, wheelbarrows, or anything that could collect water. Mosquitoes ... Read full story
 8/9/2005
EEE and WNV Detected in New Hampshire  *
The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Division of Public Health Services announced Friday (Aug. 5) that it has confirmed the presence of West Nile virus (WNV) in a bird found in Pembroke, N.H. Lab results provided by the State Public Health Laboratories confirmed that a crow tested positive for the virus. This follows closely the positive results of two birds found to have Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) earlier in the ... Read full story
 8/8/2005
West Nile Virus Human Vaccine on the Way  *
Horses had a West Nile virus (WNV) vaccine within roughly two years of the first discovery of the virus in the Western Hemisphere. It has taken a little longer to get a WNV human vaccine through the pipeline and to the American public. A representative of Acambis presented the results of the Phase I clinical trials of the company's human WNV vaccine candidate, ChimeriVax-West Nile, at the National Foundation for Infectious Disease's 8th Annual Conference ... Read full story
 8/3/2005
California: Three 2005 Equine WNV Cases   *
As of July 5, three cases of West Nile virus (WNV) have been detected in California horses. All three cases are recovering. The first case was reported on June 1 in Plumas County. The second and third cases were from Sonoma and Kern Counties and were reported on June 10. The Plumas County horse was vaccinated for WNV, and its treating vet has credited the vaccine as increasing the horse's likelihood of survival. The second horse was unvaccinated ... Read full story
 8/1/2005
Farnam Introduces Granular Larvacide for Mosquito Control  *
"The most important step any property owner can take to control mosquito populations is to remove all potential sources of stagnant water in which mosquitoes might breed," the USDA advises. Unfortunately, many necessary water sources cannot be eliminated such as livestock ponds and horse troughs. Farnam Companies has released a new weapon for the fight against mosquitoes in these water sources. Bite Free Granular Larvicide for Mosquito Control controls ... Read full story
 7/26/2005
The New West Nile Virus DNA Vaccine Explained  *
Commercial vaccines leapt toward state-of-the-art on July 8 when the USDA granted a license for the world's first DNA vaccine for any species. Horses will benefit from this accomplishment that springs from more than four years of collaborative research between Fort Dodge Animal Health and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Fort Dodge, CDC, and USDA jointly announced the achievement on July 18. The vaccine should arrive on the market in early ... Read full story
 7/20/2005
Fort Dodge Receives Approval of West Nile Virus DNA Vaccine  *
Fort Dodge Animal Health, a division of Wyeth, today announced the licensure of West Nile-Innovator DNA, a novel vaccine for horses to aid in the prevention of viremia caused by the potentially deadly West Nile virus (WNV). Fort Dodge's development of this product, in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), represents a tremendous milestone in DNA science and technology, as it is believed to be the first DNA vaccine in the world ... Read full story
 7/18/2005
West Nile Virus Confirmed in Two Oklahoma Horses  *
The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) confirmed on July 7 that two horses in the southwest region of the state had tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV) The equine cases were reported in Comanche and Washita counties. "Given the fact that we are not testing birds this year, these two equine cases are our first surveillance indicators that West Nile virus is currently circulating in Oklahoma," said interim state epidemiologist Kristy ... Read full story
 7/11/2005
West Nile Virus National and State Links  *
National Surveillance Maps Information submitted and verified to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention by state and local officials: 2003-2006--http://westnilemaps.usgs.gov/, http://www.nwhc.usgs.gov/research/west_nile/wnv_map.html 2002--http://cindi.usgs.gov/hazard/event/west_nile/ 2001--http://cindi.usgs.gov/hazard/event/west_nile/west_nile_2001.html 2000--http://www.nationalatlas.gov/virusmap.html Government Resources on ... Read full story
 7/8/2005
Vaccine Care and Handling   *
"A lot of very smart people are not aware of how to properly handle vaccines," said Rocky Bigbie, DVM, MS, director of field veterinary services with Fort Dodge Animal Health, at the 2005 Western Veterinary Conference held Feb. 20-24 in Las Vegas, Nev. "Temperature is important, and it is important to maintain records of serial numbers, etc.," Bigbie added. "It can't sit in storeroom and get up to 90°F, or sit on a back porch and freeze. Room temperature ... Read full story
 5/1/2005
Merial Launches Site for Equine WNV Vaccine   *
Merial has announced the launch of www.EquineWNV.com, a web site that offers comprehensive information about RECOMBITEK Equine West Nile Virus (WNV) vaccine. Aimed at horse owners and veterinarians, this site offers background information, scientific research data, and answers to frequently asked questions about RECOMBITEK. The site includes a unique educational animation that illustrating the recombinant technology that comprises the vaccine. ... Read full story
 4/7/2005
First Florida EEE Case Reported for 2005  *
Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services (FACS) Commissioner Charles H. Bronson says this year's first case of Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) has been reported in Union County and he is urging horse owners to have their animals vaccinated against mosquito-borne diseases. The 3-year-old horse was seen by a local veterinarian who suspected EEE. On March 22, lab testing confirmed the diagnosis of EEE. The testing also revealed an exposure to the ... Read full story
 4/7/2005
WNV in Northern Indiana   *
West Nile virus (WNV) was first detected in Indiana horses in 2001. In 2002, the state reported 704 cases, the fifth-largest outbreak in the United States. Michael Ward, BVSc, MSc, MPVM, PhD, from Purdue University's School of Veterinary Medicine, and colleagues investigated the 2002 outbreak of WNV in northern Indiana horses. The purpose of the case series that was published was to describe the specific features of WNV in horses during the outbreak, ... Read full story
 4/1/2005
West Nile Virus and Other Hot Topics  *
"Our perennial topic this morning is West Nile virus (WNV)," began Rocky Bigbie, DVM, MS, director of field veterinary services with Fort Dodge Animal Health, at the 2005 Western Veterinary Conference held Feb. 20-24 in Las Vegas, Nev. He also focused on myriad hot topics in equine veterinary medicine, discussing WNV vaccination guidelines, influenza vaccination challenge, vaccine care and handling, drug compounding, and the veterinarian's role in ... Read full story
 3/4/2005
One Dose of WNV Recombinant Vaccine Could Help Control Outbreaks   *
A recent study at Colorado State University (CSU) found that your horse might have the ability to fight off West Nile virus (WNV) less than a month after receiving a single-dose vaccination against the disease. The challenge study tested Merial's RECOMBITEK equine WNV vaccine 26 days after immunization and found that the treated horses resisted infection. The results are particularly important for horse owners and vets in areas prone to sudden ... Read full story
 3/3/2005
West Nile Virus: Threat and Response   *
Editor's Note: This is the third in a 12-part series of articles on vaccinations for horses. For a graphic demonstration of the value of vaccination, look no further than West Nile virus (WNV). When it roared onto the Eastern shore of the United States in 1999 (most likely thanks to a European or African bird), WNV struck fear into the hearts of horse owners when it quickly became clear that equines were more vulnerable to the virus than humans. ... Read full story
 3/1/2005
AAEP 2004:Infectious Diseases Forum  *
Veterinarians swapped ideas on hot topics in the realm of equine infectious disease in the Infectious Disease Forum at the 2004 American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention, held Dec. 3-8 in Denver, Colo. Steve Conboy, DVM, a private practitioner in Lexington, Ky., and Maureen Long, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, assistant professor of large animal veterinary medicine at the University of Florida, monitored the session. USDA Equine Study to Begin ... Read full story
 2/7/2005
WNV Vaccine: Safe for Broodmares   *
Researchers at Texas A&M University (TAMU) have just completed a retrospective study into the safety of administering the killed West Nile virus (WNV) vaccine to pregnant broodmares, the first study on this topic in equine reproductive research. The study looked at 595 mares from four different farms in Texas and Kentucky. The authors of the study (which was published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association) hoped to resolve ... Read full story
 2/1/2005
Additional Treatment Receives Conditional License   *
In the treatment of horses suffering from West Nile virus (WNV), vets have only a few choices besides supportive care. A novel WNV serum antibody product received conditional approval from the USDA in November 2004. Colorado Serum Company (CSC) announced the product's availability on Dec. 13, 2004. Serum antibody products help animals that have been exposed to a disease by increasing the antibody level against the disease in the circulatory system, ... Read full story
 2/1/2005
One Dose of WNV Recombinant Vaccine Could Help Control Outbreaks  *
A recent study at Colorado State University (CSU) found that your horse might have the ability to fight off West Nile virus (WNV) less than a month after receiving a single-dose vaccination against the disease. The challenge study tested Merial's RECOMBITEK equine WNV vaccine 26 days after immunization and found that the treated horses resisted infection. The results are particularly important for horse owners and veterinarians in areas prone to ... Read full story
 1/31/2005
West Nile Virus Vaccination Guidelines Developed by the AAEP  *
The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) has released West Nile Virus (WNV) vaccination guidelines. This information is intended as a supplement to the AAEP's Guidelines for Vaccination of Horses (January 2001). Practitioners are directed to consult this publication as the following discussion is to be read in conjunction with those general guidelines for vaccination. West Nile virus infection was first diagnosed in horses in ... Read full story
 1/6/2005
WNV Vaccine: Safe for Broodmares  *
Researchers at Texas A&M University (TAMU) have just completed a retrospective study into the safety of administering the killed West Nile virus (WNV) vaccine to pregnant broodmares, the first study on this topic in equine reproductive research. The study looked at 595 mares from four different farms in Texas and Kentucky. The authors of the study (which was published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association) hoped to resolve ... Read full story
 1/5/2005
Additional WNV Treatment Receives Conditional License  *
In the treatment of horses suffering from the West Nile virus (WNV), vets have only a few choices besides supportive care. A novel WNV serum antibody product received conditional approval from the USDA in November 2004. Colorado Serum Company announced the product's availability on Dec. 13, 2004. Serum antibody products help animals that have been exposed to a disease by increasing the antibody level against the disease in the circulatory system. ... Read full story
 1/4/2005
Crunching the Numbers: California's Equine WNV Mortality Rate   *
California horse owners have been keenly aware of the problem presented by West Nile virus (WNV) in 2004, but the problem took a deadly turn last year. The virus was discovered in all but one of the Golden State's 58 counties, leaving only Del Norte County without any reported cases. According to the California Department of Health Services, 42.2% of reported equine WNV cases in 2004 were fatal. Gregory L. Ferraro, DVM, director of the Center for ... Read full story
 12/23/2004
West Nile Virus DNA Vaccine Awaits Approval  *
A new vaccine to protect horses against West Nile virus (WNV) has been developed and submitted for USDA review. If approved, it would be the first commercially available DNA vaccine for any mammalian or animal species. Steve Chu, DVM, PhD, senior vice president, Global Research and Development, Fort Dodge Animal Health, explained the conceptual DNA vaccine to The Horse. The vaccine has two major components--one is a piece of DNA that codes for two ... Read full story
 12/2/2004
West Nile Virus Update  *
West Nile virus has continued its inexorable spread westward across the United States and its presence is now confirmed in all states except Alaska and Hawaii. As of October 27, the USDA reported a total of 1192 equine cases throughout the United States, of which 521 were in California and 109 in Arizona. Information on the incidence of equine cases on a state-by-state basis can be obtained from http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/nahps/equine/wnv/map2004.html. ... Read full story
 11/3/2004
West Nile Virus Infiltrates the Upper 48; EEE Sprinkled Throughout   *
Every state in the 48 contiguous United States has now experienced a taste of West Nile virus (WNV) since it first was detected in the Western Hemisphere in 1999. Having their first encounters with West Nile virus this year were Nevada (WNV found in birds, mosquitoes, horses, and humans) and Oregon (in birds and horses). By Aug. 26, the USDA had reported 351 equine cases in 28 states. The three states with the most equine cases were Arizona, California, ... Read full story
 10/1/2004
West Nile Virus Infiltrates the Upper 48; EEE Sprinkled Throughout  *
Every state in the 48 contiguous United States has now experienced a taste of West Nile virus (WNV) since it first was detected in the Western Hemisphere in 1999. Having their first encounters with West Nile virus this year were Nevada (WNV found in birds, mosquitoes, horses, and humans) and Oregon (in birds and horses). By Aug. 26, the USDA had reported 351 equine cases in 28 states. The three states with the most equine cases were Arizona, California, ... Read full story
 9/1/2004
Nevada's First WNV Case Detected   *
The Nevada Department of Agriculture's Animal Disease & Food Safety Laboratory confirmed West Nile virus (WNV) in a Fallon County horse on July 22. The horse was euthanized June 21 after exhibiting signs consistent with WNV. The horse had not been vaccinated against WNV, said David Thain, DVM, Nevada state veterinarian. He urged residents to vaccinate animals and guard against mosquitoes. Read more about WNV at www.TheHorse.com/wnv. ... Read full story
 9/1/2004
Horse Dies from West Nile Virus at California Racetrack  *
Having identified the first known racehorse to die from the West Nile Virus (WNV) at a California racetrack, equine health authorities are emphasizing the importance of equine vaccinations and booster shots as well as other preventive measures to help prevent the spread of the disease. The California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory at the University of California, Davis, confirmed Aug. 13 that the 5-year-old mare Quick Nip, who was euthanized ... Read full story
 8/27/2004
First N.J. Equine Case of WNV is in Pregnant Mare  *
Officials at the New Jersey Department of Agriculture announced yesterday (Aug. 17) that West Nile virus (WNV) had been diagnosed in a 7-year-old pregnant mare in Gloucester County, marking the first detection of equine WNV in the state this year. The mare, which had not been vaccinated for WNV, began showing clinical signs on Aug. 10. The horse's veterinarian took a blood sample, which was submitted to the New Jersey Department of Agriculture’s ... Read full story
 8/18/2004
West Nile Virus Found in Oregon Bird  *
Oregon has become the last of the continental United States to be affected by West Nile virus (WNV). Malheur County officials and the Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) confirmed Aug. 13 that a dead crow found in Vale (in the east central part of the state) was infected with WNV. The testing was conducted at Oregon State University's Veterinarian Diagnostic Laboratory. West Nile virus was first introduced to the United States in 1999, and ... Read full story
 8/16/2004
Michigan's First 2004 Equine WNV Case  *
A Clinton County horse has tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV), the first of the year, veterinary officials with the Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA) today confirmed (Aug. 13, 2005). Laboratory tests conducted in early August at the Michigan State University Diagnostic Center for Population and Animal Health confirmed the presence of West Nile virus in the unvaccinated horse, according to Dr. Nancy Frank, Michigan's Acting State Veterinarian. ... Read full story
 8/13/2004
West Nile Virus and EEE Detected in Maryland Mosquitoes   *
Mosquitoes collected in two separate areas of Prince George's County are the first in Maryland this year to test positive for West Nile virus (WNV) and for Eastern equine encephalomyelitis (EEE). In the first instance, mosquitoes collected on July 19 from a trap in Cottage City tested positive for WNV. Mosquitoes collected on July 22 inside the Patuxent Wildlife Refuge near Bowie have tested positive for EEE. Laboratory tests from the Maryland Department ... Read full story
 8/9/2004
WNV Cases Accumulate--States Await Detection   *
By late June, West Nile virus (WNV) cases had popped up in areas of the United States, Canada, and Central America. Twenty-six of the United States had WNV detected in at least one species (birds, horses, humans, or mosquitoes). Six states had recorded equine cases in 2004, and while horse owners are more educated than ever on WNV prevention, officials expect to see more cases in late summer and fall, when equine and other case counts typically soar. ... Read full story
 8/1/2004
Kentucky's First Equine WNV Case of 2004  *
A 20-year-old Arabian mare in Nelson County, Ky., has been euthanized following a battle with the mosquito-borne neurologic disease West Nile virus (WNV). Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA) officials announced confirmation of WNV in the horse on July 2, which marked the detection of the state's first equine case in 2004. Agriculture Commissioner Richie Farmer said, “We are not surprised that West Nile is back. We are encouraged that the first ... Read full story
 7/6/2004
West Nile Virus Cases Accumulate--States Await Detection  *
By June 29, West Nile virus (WNV) cases had popped up in areas of the United States, Canada, and Central America. Eleven states had recorded equine cases in 2004, and while horse owners are more educated than ever on WNV prevention, officials expect to see more cases in late summer and fall, when equine and other case counts typically soar. In the United States, as of June 29 (according to the CDC): Eleven states had discovered a total of 42 ... Read full story
 7/2/2004
On-Watch for WNV in the United Kingdom   *
It was nearly five years ago when U.S. scientists were caught unaware by the deadly West Nile virus (WNV) and faced the puzzle of how that virus would adapt to a naïve population of birds and mammals in our various climates. United Kingdom researchers now are working to understand how the disease might behave in their country should they detect it, and figure out ways to handle the virus if it does invade. An Oxford research group recently determined ... Read full story
 7/1/2004
Arizona and Colorado Log Equine WNV Cases   *
The tally of states with 2004 U.S. West Nile virus (WNV) equine cases had risen to six with the addition of Arizona, Colorado, and Virginia to the group by the end of May. Alabama, Florida, and Texas had already logged equine cases this year. Arizona reported 138 equine cases in 2003, with its first case detected in mid-August. In Colorado, 604 equine WNV cases were reported in 2003 beginning in early July. Virginia reported 234 equine cases in ... Read full story
 7/1/2004
New Vaccine Will Not Interfere With WNV Diagnostics   *
Scientists recently determined that the vaccination with Merial Limited's Recombitek equine West Nile virus (WNV) vaccine would not confuse results if a horse were to be tested for recent WNV exposure or clinical infection. At the Western Veterinary Conference in Las Vegas, Nev., in February, Eileen Ostlund DVM, PhD, head of the equine and ovine viruses section at the Diagnostic Virology Laboratory, National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL), ... Read full story
 7/1/2004
Encephalitis: Many Causes, Deadly Outcome   *
Equine encephalitis has been around for a long time. Old-time horsemen simply referred to it as sleeping sickness. They knew that if a horse contracted it, the animal's prognosis was not great, and that if he did recover, his ability to perform might be compromised. While these horsemen were basically correct in their categorization, this is not a simple malady. For example, there are at least six different viruses that can cause equine encephalitis ... Read full story
 7/1/2004
Virginia Logs Its First 2004 Equine WNV Case  *
The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced 2004's first positive case of West Nile virus (WNV) in a horse on May 28. The six-year-old Thoroughbred mare lived on a farm in Culpeper County that had a positive case of WNV in 2003. She received one WNV vaccination only two weeks prior to the May 1 onset of clinical signs. The mare exhibited the following clinical signs: toe dragging on all four feet; buckling ... Read full story
 6/17/2004
Equine Disease--Fourth Quarter, 2003   *
From the April 2004 issue of Equine Disease Quarterly, funded by Lloyd's of London underwriters, brokers, and their Kentucky agents The International Collating Centre in Newmarket, England, and other sources reported the following disease outbreaks in the fourth quarter of 2003: Two cases of contagious equine metritis on separate premises were diagnosed among Thoroughbreds on the island of Hokkaido, Japan, and a single case in a non-Thoroughbred ... Read full story
 6/1/2004
WNV Satellite Conference: Remain Wary of Disease   *
The years 2002 and 2003 were the years of the horse, as far as West Nile virus (WNV) was concerned, said Robert Restifo, MS, public health entomologist administrator and chief of Ohio's Vector-borne Disease Program, at the third annual WNV Satellite Conference in late March. "Once WNV gets in an area, it tends to stay there," he added. "WNV is here to stay, and it's going to manifest itself." Close to 400 Ohio public health and extension officials ... Read full story
 6/1/2004
WNV Detected in Illinois Birds  *
Three dead birds in Illinois have tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV) since this year's statewide mosquito-borne disease surveillance began on May 1. One crow was collected in Rantoul County and positive results were confirmed on May 21. Other positive birds have been reported in DuPage County (May 12) and Adams County (May 20). In addition, two mosquito pools in DuPage County have been confirmed positive for WNV. No equine or human cases ... Read full story
 5/24/2004
On-Watch for WNV in the United Kingdom  *
It was nearly five years ago when U.S. scientists were caught unaware by the deadly West Nile virus (WNV) and faced the puzzle of how that virus would adapt to a naïve population of birds and mammals in our various climates. United Kingdom researchers now are working to understand how the disease might behave in their country should they detect it, and figure out ways to handle the virus if it does invade. A recent study completed by an Oxford ... Read full story
 5/17/2004
Arizona and Colorado Log Equine WNV Cases  *
The tally of states with 2004 U.S. West Nile virus (WNV) equine cases has risen to five with the addition of Arizona and Colorado to the group this week. Alabama, Florida, and Texas had already logged equine cases this year. Arizona's first equine WNV case was detected in mid-August of last year, and a total of 138 equine cases were reported in the state in 2003. Last year was Colorado's second year for WNV in horses, and a total of 604 equine ... Read full story
 5/14/2004
New Vaccine Will Not Interfere With WNV Diagnostics  *
Scientists recently determined that vaccination with Merial Limited's Recombitek equine West Nile virus (WNV) vaccine would not confuse results if a horse were to be tested for recent WNV exposure or clinical infection. At the Western Veterinary Conference in Las Vegas, Nev., in February, Eileen Ostlund DVM, PhD, head of the equine and ovine viruses section at the Diagnostic Virology Laboratory, National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL), ... Read full story
 5/10/2004
U.K. Horse Owners: Be Wary of WNV in Exported Horses  *
Horse owners in the United Kingdom (U.K.) are being reminded to protect horses they are exporting to the United States from West Nile virus (WNV). However, no WNV vaccine is available in the UK. According to an article in the online publication Equine World UK, "Horses exported from the U.K. to the United States are vulnerable to infection and are at risk in regions where the virus is known to be present--which is throughout most of mainland USA." ... Read full story
 5/5/2004
BLM Dispersal/Holding Options  *
The Wild Horse and Burro Program focuses on two key factors: Management of wild horses and burros whose habitat is on public lands, and programs to deal with excess animals removed from public lands. The federal Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) 2004 wild horse budget is $29 million: "The identified need is for $42.2 million in 2005 fiscal year," said Jeff Rawson, based in Washington, D.C., group manager for the BLM Wild Horse and Burro Program. "Using ... Read full story
 5/5/2004
WNV Satellite Conference: Remain Wary of Disease  *
The years 2002 and 2003 have been the years of the horse, as far as West Nile virus (WNV) is concerned, said Robert Restifo, MS, Public Health Entomologist Administrator and chief of Ohio's Vector-borne Disease Program, at the third annual West Nile Virus Satellite Conference, in late March. "Once WNV gets into an area, it tends to stay there," he added. "West Nile virus is here, it's here to stay, and it's going to manifest itself." More than 400 ... Read full story
 5/4/2004
HC/HERDA In the News  *
I'm amazed at some of the angry reactions that followed our publication of a news item last month on a hereditary disease called hyperelosis cutis (HC) or hereditary equine regional dermal asthenia (HERDA). Some of the researchers involved--Ann Rashmir, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVS, associate professor of surgery and head of the Hyperelastosis Cutis Research Program at Mississippi State University, and Nena Winand, DVM, PhD, a geneticist and assistant professor ... Read full story
 5/1/2004
WNV: Prevention is Key   *
"West Nile virus (WNV) is the number one diagnosed neurologic disease in horses, or close to it," said William Saville, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, of The Ohio State University, at a March 10 Fort Dodge Animal Health educational seminar for veterinarians held in Lexington, Ky. "Because of the decreased number of cases in 2003 compared to 2002, people are starting to think we've got WNV under control, but we haven't," he said. "We need to convince horse ... Read full story
 5/1/2004
WNV Vaccine Research   *
Horse owners and veterinarians alike have wondered if they can use Merial Limited's Recombitek equine West Nile virus (WNV) vaccine in horses previously vaccinated with Fort Dodge's West Nile-Innovator. Recently, Merial released the results of a study investigating this issue. In the study, 27 horses were vaccinated in spring of 2003 with a two-dose initial series of Innovator per label recommendation. After 18-25 weeks, they received a single ... Read full story
 5/1/2004
Ohio Announces Probable Human WNV Case  *
On April 9, the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) announced its first probable case of West Nile virus (WNV) in 2004. The patient is a 79-year-old male from Scioto County. "With warm weather in recent weeks, mosquitoes have become active," said ODH Director J. Nick Baird, MD. "(This) development should remind us all of the importance of taking personal protection measures and working to eliminate mosquito breeding sites on and around our properties." ... Read full story
 4/13/2004
New Research on the Merial WNV Vaccine  *
Horse owners and veterinarians alike have wondered if they can use Merial Limited's Recombitek equine West Nile virus (WNV) vaccine in horses previously vaccinated with Fort Dodge's West Nile-Innovator. Recently, Merial released the results of a study investigating this issue. In the study, 27 horses were vaccinated in spring of 2003 with a two-dose initial series of Innovator per label recommendation. After 18-25 weeks, they received a single follow-up ... Read full story
 4/1/2004
California Birds Test Positive for West Nile Virus  *
Orange County, Calif., Vector Control District (OCVCD) biologists have found antibodies to West Nile virus (WNV) in two adult female house finches. The birds were trapped as part of the District's wild bird trapping program which involves trapping and releasing dozens of wild birds each week after drawing a small blood sample. The two birds were bled on March 2, 2004, and tested at the District lab in Garden Grove. One of the birds was also trapped ... Read full story
 4/1/2004
West Nile Virus--An Evolving Epizootic   *
"West Nile virus (WNV) is coming to a state near you if it hasn't already arrived," said Eileen Ostlund, DVM, PhD, head of the equine/ovine viruses section at the Diagnostic Virology Laboratory, National Veterinary Services Laboratories in Ames, Iowa, during the Western Veterinary Conference held Feb. 15-19 in Las Vegas, Nev. In a comprehensive overview of WNV's activity in the United States since its arrival in 1999, she discussed its transmission ... Read full story
 4/1/2004
West Nile Virus Questions and Answers   *
In a question and answer session at the Western Veterinary Conference, Eileen Ostlund, DVM, PhD, head of the equine and ovine viruses section at the Diagnostic Virology Laboratory, National Veterinary Services Laboratories in Ames, Iowa, offered these answers to the audience's West Nile virus questions. Q. Can you use Merial's recombinant canarypox vaccine to booster horses after using the killed Fort Dodge vaccine? A. We don't know yet. We need ... Read full story
 4/1/2004
Texas Horse Owners Aware of WNV Threat   *
Reports have surfaced that horse owners in Texas are becoming complacent and have backed off vaccinating their animals for West Nile virus (WNV), which has infected nearly 2,400 horses in the state since late 2002. Angela Pelzel, DVM, an epidemiologist with the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC), reported that she doesn't believe that is the case--Texas horse owners have not grown complacent, are well aware of the threat of WNV, and are continuing ... Read full story
 4/1/2004
WNV: Prevention is Key  *
"West Nile virus (WNV) is the number one diagnosed neurologic disease in horses, or close to it," said William Saville, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, of The Ohio State University, at a March 10 Fort Dodge Animal Health educational seminar for veterinarians held in Lexington, Ky. "Because of the decreased number of cases in 2003 compared to 2002, people are starting to think we've got WNV under control, but we haven't," he said. "We need to convince horse ... Read full story
 3/18/2004
West Nile Virus Q&A  *
In a question and answer session following her West Nile Virus presentation during the Western Veterinary Conference (held Feb. 15-19 in Las Vegas, Nevada), Eileen Ostlund, DVM, PhD, head of the equine and ovine viruses section at the Diagnostic Virology Laboratory, National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Ames, Iowa, offered the following answers to the audience's questions. Can you use Merial’s recombinant canarypox vaccine to booster horses ... Read full story
 3/12/2004
WNV: An Evolving Epizootic   *
"West Nile virus (WNV) is coming to a state near you if it hasn't already arrived," said Eileen Ostlund, DVM, PhD, head of the equine and ovine viruses section at the Diagnostic Virology Laboratory, National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Ames, Iowa, during the Western Veterinary Conference held February 15-19 in Las Vegas, Nev. In a comprehensive overview of WNV's activity in the United States since its arrival in 1999, she discussed its transmission ... Read full story
 3/12/2004
AAEP 2003: Neurologic In-Depth Session  *
With equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM), equine herpesvirus type-1 myeloencephalitis (EHV-1, more specifically EHM), and West Nile virus (WNV) on the radar of so many U.S. veterinarians, it only made sense to devote a four-hour segment of the 2003 American Association of Equine Practitioners' convention to neurologic disease and disorders. Assessing neurologic conditions might seem difficult, but with practice and attention to the subtle differences ... Read full story
 3/2/2004
AAEP Wrap-Up: Neurologic Disease/WNV  *
Subclinical Exposure Rate to WNV It's extremely important to vaccinate horses at least two months before the West Nile virus (WNV) season, according to Maureen Long, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, assistant professor of large animal veterinary medicine at the University of Florida. She presented rough data regarding 2001 Florida WNV exposure rates. "Little is known about the occurrence of subclinical exposure in horses (how many horses have been ... Read full story
 3/1/2004
Residual Effects of WNV   *
Horse owners should have equine survivors of West Nile virus (WNV) re-examined by their veterinarians before putting the animals back into work. In a study of Minnesota horses which survived clinical WNV infection, 40% showed WNV residual effects at six months after diagnosis; these neurologic effects can make the horse more dangerous to ride or drive. Julia Wilson, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM, is an associate professor in clinical and population sciences at ... Read full story
 3/1/2004
Texas Horse Owners Aware of WNV Threat  *
Reports have surfaced that horse owners in Texas are becoming complacent and have backed off vaccinating their animals for West Nile virus (WNV), which has infected nearly 2,400 horses in the state since late 2002. Angela Pelzel, DVM, an epidemiologist with the Texas Animal Health Commission, reported that she doesn't believe that is the case--Texas horse owners have not grown complacent, are well aware of the threat of WNV, and are continuing to ... Read full story
 2/26/2004
AAEP 2003: Kester News Hour  *
With researchers worldwide working on solutions to various horse health problems, there is a veritable mountain of information being published continuously. Much of this information is included in AAEP convention presentations, but some of this valuable research was either too new or brief to be included in the program. Thus, the Kester News Hour has new studies and information discussed by John Madigan, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVIM, professor of Medicine ... Read full story
 2/18/2004
AAEP 2003: Subclinical Exposure Rate to West Nile Virus  *
If you’ve had equine cases of West Nile virus (WNV) pop up in your county, most of the equids in the area probably were exposed to the disease or even infected by the time those infections occurred. That is why it’s extremely important to vaccinate horses at least two months before the WNV season, according to Maureen Long, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, assistant professor of large animal veterinary medicine at the University of Florida. She presented rough ... Read full story
 2/3/2004
New WNV Equine Recombinant DNA Vaccine Approved   *
Editor's note: A letter to the editor from Fort Dodge Animal Health cited inaccuracies in this article and has been included below. A new West Nile virus (WNV) equine recombinant canarypox vaccine received USDA registration approval on Dec. 23, 2003, and could pave the way for a new generation of equine vaccines in the United States. Merial has been developing this Recombitek equine WNV technology for three years. The company assembled a group ... Read full story
 2/1/2004
New Combination Vaccines Include WNV Protection   *
This year your veterinarian's truck might be stocked with a new combination vaccine--protection against West Nile virus (WNV) has been folded into routinely used three-way and four-way vaccines. The new combinations, manufactured by Fort Dodge Animal Health (FDAH) in Overland Park, Kan., were to be available for shipment to veterinarians the week of Jan. 12. The vaccines will combine their WNV killed virus vaccine, West Nile Innovator, with protection ... Read full story
 2/1/2004
Purdue Team Solves WNV Structure   *
Purdue University biologists recently determined the viral structure of the West Nile virus (WNV), a development that could greatly augment our understanding of the virus' life cycle. Using cryoelectron microscopy and advanced imaging techniques, the Purdue team has determined the orientation of the major surface proteins in a West Nile viral particle. Because these proteins are instrumental in allowing the virus to bind to and invade a host cell, ... Read full story
 2/1/2004
AAEP 2003: Reproduction/Perinatology Forum  *
Veterinarians interested in reproduction and perinatology (the foal immediately after birth) crowded into the Reproduction/Perinatology Forum at the 2003 American Association of Equine Practitioners' convention to discuss mare reproductive loss syndrome (MRLS), terminology for the mare breeding soundness examination, vaccination of broodmares with the West Nile virus vaccine, current trends for applied reproductive techniques, and today’s educational ... Read full story
 1/31/2004
Residual Effects of WNV More Than Anticipated  *
Horse owners should be vigilant about having equine survivors of West Nile virus (WNV) re-examined by their veterinarians before putting the animals back into work. In a study of Minnesota horses which survived clinical WNV can make the horse more dangerous to ride or drive. Julia Wilson, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM, Associate Professor in Clinical and Population Sciences at the University of Minnesota’s (UM) College of Veterinary Medicine, presented this statistic ... Read full story
 1/21/2004
Merial Introduces Next Generation Equine West Nile Virus Vaccine  *
Merial announced today the release of a new equine vaccine--RECOMBITEK Equine West Nile Virus (WNV) vaccine. The recent USDA approval of RECOMBITEK Equine West Nile Virus vaccine offers veterinarians a first-of-its-kind product backed by cutting-edge science to offer fast-acting and long-lasting protection from the often deadly WNV. (Click here for an earlier article on the vaccine.) "The RECOMBITEK West Nile Virus vaccine uses recombinant DNA technology ... Read full story
 1/6/2004
Tell-Tale Signs of West Nile Virus   *
Unfortunately, clinical signs of West Nile virus (WNV) aren't unique, making it difficult for practitioners to suspect WNV above other neurologic diseases. For this reason, researchers from the University of Florida set out to closely scrutinize the clinical signs of WNV to see if any are particularly unusual. Records of 46 horses admitted to the hospital in 2001 with confirmed cases of WNV encephalitis were reviewed to try to find features that ... Read full story
 1/1/2004
New Vaccine for WNV Awaits Approval   *
A new West Nile virus (WNV) equine recombinant canarypox vaccine awaits USDA approval, and once available, could pave the way for a new generation of equine vaccines in the United States. Merial developed this Recombitek equine WNV technology, and assembled a group of researchers, clinicians, and private practitioners in New Orleans, La., on Nov. 19, 2003, to review WNV and the research behind the technology. The vaccine uses canarypox (which is ... Read full story
 1/1/2004
Rapid Testing for West Nile Virus   *
By the 2003 West Nile virus (WNV) season, a majority of state laboratories had obtained (or were establishing) the capacity to run the IgM Capture ELISA, the most common quick test for the disease. The test measures a class of antibody produced early after infection, can be performed on serum samples drawn from suspect cases, and takes two to three days to process. Other tests take four days to two weeks, and some are available only on post-mortem ... Read full story
 1/1/2004
New West Nile Virus Equine Recombinant DNA Vaccine Approved  *
Editor's note: A letter to the editor from Fort Dodge Animal Health cited inaccuracies in this article and can be seen by clicking here. A new West Nile virus (WNV) equine recombinant canarypox vaccine received USDA registration approval on Dec. 23, and could pave the way for a new generation of equine vaccines in the United States. Merial has been developing this Recombitek equine WNV technology for three years. The company assembled a group of ... Read full story
 12/24/2003
Purdue Team Describes WNV Structure  *
Purdue University biologists recently determined the structure of the West Nile virus (WNV), a development that could greatly augment our understanding of the virus' life cycle. Purdue Department of Biological Sciences image The surface of a West Nile virus particle is composed of proteins that enable the virus to bind with and invade a host cell. The particle is approximately 50 nanometers in diameter, or about 1/1000th of the width of ... Read full story
 12/15/2003
Kentucky Equine WNV Cases Drop in 2003   *
Cases of West Nile virus (WNV)in Kentucky equine declined dramatically in 2003 compared with the previous year, the Kentucky Department of Agriculture reported. The KDA said 102 Kentucky equids were confirmed with WNV this year, an 80 percent drop from 2002, when 513 cases were reported. A series of cold snaps in late November and early December eliminated mosquitoes that carry the virus, essentially ending the threat of WNV for 2003. "The decline ... Read full story
 12/15/2003
New Vaccine for WNV Awaits Approval  *
A new West Nile virus (WNV) equine recombinant canarypox vaccine awaits USDA approval, and once available, could pave the way for a new generation of equine vaccines in the United States. Merial developed this Recombitek equine WNV technology, and assembled a group of researchers, clinicians, and private practitioners in New Orleans, La., on Nov. 19, 2003, to review WNV and the research behind the technology. According to the company, the vaccine ... Read full story
 12/5/2003
New Combination Vaccines Include WNV Protection  *
In 2004, your veterinarian's truck might be stocked with a new combination vaccine--protection against West Nile virus (WNV) has been folded into routinely used three-way and four-way vaccines. The new combinations, manufactured by Fort Dodge Animal Health (FDAH) in Overland Park, Kan., will be available for shipment to veterinarians the week of Jan. 12, 2004. The vaccines will combine their WNV killed virus vaccine, West Nile Innovator, with protection ... Read full story
 12/5/2003
New West Nile Virus Equine Recombinant DNA Vaccine Anticipated  *
Editor's note: A letter to the editor from Fort Dodge Animal Health cited inaccuracies in this article and has been included below. A new West Nile virus (WNV) equine recombinant canarypox vaccine awaits USDA approval; once available, it could pave the way for a new generation of equine vaccines in the United States. Merial has been developing this Recombitek equine WNV technology for three years. The company assembled a group of researchers, clinicians, ... Read full story
 12/4/2003
CDC Prediction: California Might be WNV Epicenter in 2004   *
A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) official has predicted that the West Coast will be hit hard with West Nile virus (WNV) next year, particularly California. According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, Lyle Peterson, MD, acting director of CDC's division of vector-borne diseases, said in a speech Oct. 1 at the University of California's Berkeley campus that the area of greatest concern for WNV human infection in 2004 probably would be ... Read full story
 12/1/2003
Plasma Product Licensed For WNV Treatment   *
On Oct. 23, Lake Immunogenics (LI) became the first company to receive a USDA conditional license for West Nile virus (WNV) Antibody, Equine Origin, as a plasma product. The product already was a USDA-licensed plasma product under the name HiGamm-Equi, and was used off-label to treat WNV infection before it was licensed for this use. Plasma products traditionally have been used for failure of passive transfer, to prevent Rhodococcus equi infection ... Read full story
 12/1/2003
Plasma Product Licensed For WNV Treatment  *
On Oct. 23, Lake Immunogenics became the first company to receive a USDA conditional license for West Nile virus (WNV) Antibody, Equine Origin, as a plasma product. The product already was a USDA-licensed plasma product under the name HiGamm-Equi, and was used off-label to treat WNV infection before it was licensed for this use. COURTESY LAKE IMMUNOGENICS West Nile Virus Antibody, Equine Origin, the first conditionally licensed plasma ... Read full story
 11/5/2003
CDC Prediction: California Might be WNV Epicenter in 2004  *
A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) official has predicted that the West Coast will be hit hard with West Nile virus (WNV) next year, particularly California. According to the Cincinnati Enquirer online edition, Lyle Peterson, MD, acting director of CDC's division of vector-borne diseases, said in a speech Oct. 1 at the University of California's Berkeley campus that the area of greatest concern for WNV human infection in 2004 probably ... Read full story
 10/3/2003
WNV Treatment Licensed   *
Novartis Animal Vaccines announced Aug. 19 the conditional licensing and availability of the only antibody product approved by the USDA to help control disease caused by West Nile virus (WNV) in equids. This product helps an exposed animal by increasing the antibody level in the circulatory system, which enhances an animal's ability to neutralize virus already in the blood. For a product to get USDA conditional approval, the company must show that ... Read full story
 10/1/2003
West Nile Virus: The Fifth Year   *
Even with a conditionally approved treatment for West Nile virus (WNV) available, prevention is still key. As of Sept. 3, WNV equine cases had been reported in 38 states, and only four states (Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington) had not reported WNV detection in any species. Official reports and suggestions from veterinarians experienced with the disease give insight into what we can expect during the remainder of the WNV season. "Based on statistics ... Read full story
 10/1/2003
Hyperimmune Plasma for WNV Horses   *
Veterinarians have been using an antibody product to treat West Nile virus (WNV) clinical signs, but its use for this purpose is currently off-label (not approved by the USDA). At press time, the hyperimmune plasma product HiGamm-Equi, by Lake Immunogenics, was being examined by the USDA for conditional approval. HiGamm-Equi is typically used for failure of passive transfer in foals--the horses from which the plasma is taken are heavily vaccinated ... Read full story
 10/1/2003
West Nile Virus: The Fifth Year  *
Even with a conditionally approved treatment for West Nile virus (WNV) available, prevention is still key. As of Sept. 9, WNV equine cases had been reported in 37 states, and only four of the continental United States (Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington) had not reported WNV detection in any species. Official reports and suggestions from veterinarians experienced with the disease give insight into what we can expect during the remainder of the ... Read full story
 9/10/2003
More on the Licensed WNV Treatment  *
Novartis Animal Vaccines announced Aug. 19 the conditional licensing and availability of the only antibody product approved by the USDA to help control disease caused by West Nile virus (WNV) in equids. This product helps an exposed animal by increasing the antibody level in the circulatory system, which enhances an animal's ability to neutralize virus already in the blood. For a product to get USDA conditional approval, the company must show that ... Read full story
 9/10/2003
Hyperimmune Plasma for WNV Horses  *
Veterinarians have been using an antibody product to treat West Nile virus (WNV) clinical signs, but its use for this purpose is currently off-label (not approved by the USDA). Currently, the hyperimmune plasma product HiGamm-Equi, by Lake Immunogenics, is being examined by the USDA for conditional approval. HiGamm-Equi is typically used for failure of passive transfer in foals--the horses from which the plasma is taken are heavily vaccinated against ... Read full story
 9/10/2003
Suspect EEE or WNV Cases in Rhode Island  *
The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management has been notified of three suspected cases of encephalitis in horses in Rhode Island. All three horses are from Washington County and are being investigated for possible West Nile Virus (WNV) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) infections. One horse died, one had to be euthanized, and one is alive and responding to treatment. If confirmed, these infections would represent the first equine ... Read full story
 9/8/2003
Dutch, Israeli Researchers Developing West Nile Virus Vaccine  *
Crucell N.V., a Dutch biotechnology company, and the Israel-based Kimron Veterinary Institute are anticipating the approval of their veterinary West Nile Virus (WNV) in Israel in early 2004. Based on encouraging results from their early work, they will conduct a field before the end of this year on approximately 2,000 geese using the vaccine. A spokesman for Crucell said the vaccine should work in horses and there are plans to get approval to market ... Read full story
 9/8/2003
West Nile Virus Treatment Licensed  *
Novartis Animal Vaccines announced Aug. 19 the conditional licensing and availability of the only antibody product approved by the USDA to help control disease caused by West Nile virus (WNV) in equids. This product helps an exposed animal by increasing the antibody level in the circulatory system, which enhances an animal’s ability to neutralize virus already in the blood. The approval was announced on Aug. 7 to USDA officials and state veterinarians. For ... Read full story
 9/5/2003
First 2003 West Nile Virus Finding in California  *
The first evidence of West Nile virus (WNV) in California this year was found in mosquitoes collected in Imperial County near the Salton Sea, announced Diana M. Bontá, RN, DrPH, state health director, on Aug. 20. Several flocks of sentinel chickens from the same region are also likely positive for WNV based on preliminary testing. The testing of mosquitoes and sentinel chickens are part of the state's surveillance system for WNV and other mosquito-borne ... Read full story
 8/27/2003
New WNV Antibody Treatment Explained  *
This week, Novartis Animal Vaccines publicly announced the conditional licensing and availability of the only antibody product approved to aid in the control of disease caused by West Nile virus (WNV), by helping an exposed animal neutralize virus in the blood. The approval was announced on Aug. 7 to USDA officials and state veterinarians. COURTESY NOVARTIS Novartis Animal Vaccines has released the first antibody product approved to aid ... Read full story
 8/20/2003
West Nile Virus Antibody Product Receives Conditional License  *
The USDA's Animal Plant Health Inspection Service has issued a conditional license to Novartis Animal Vaccines, Inc., for the manufacture and distribution of West Nile Virus Antibody, Equine Origin, for treatment of disease caused by West Nile virus (WNV). Typically, antibody products are very specific and mimic the activity of naturally occurring molecules used by the body's immune system to combat disease. Richard E. Hill Jr., Director of the ... Read full story
 8/19/2003
2003 West Nile Virus Updates  *
The West Nile virus (WNV) 2003 season is well underway. Reports of equine cases are steadily rolling in from states where the virus has been detected before, and veterinary and public health officials in those states that haven't experienced cases in the past four years are likely readying for their first detection of WNV. The USDA reported Aug. 11 that 309 equine cases of West Nile virus (WNV) have been reported in 2003. See the map here: http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/nahps/equine/wnv/map2003.html An ... Read full story
 8/15/2003
West Nile Virus Vaccine: Adverse Reproductive Effects?   *
Top veterinarians and the USDA dispute allegations made in a May 30 article in The Denver Post that the West Nile virus (WNV) vaccine might have caused widespread abortions and deformed foals. Mare owners calling themselves the "Lost Foals Group" claimed the vaccine caused up to 1,200 abortions and nearly 300 deformed or dummy foals. A news release from the USDA stated: "Some recent stories have suggested that the Fort Dodge Animal Health (FDAH) ... Read full story
 8/1/2003
Vaccination Protocols and Internal Parasite Controls  *
Preventing infectious diseases and parasites from attacking our horses are primary concerns for every horse owner. James D. Smith, DVM, a practitioner at Hagyard-Davidson-McGee Associates, PLLC, in Lexington, Ky., and Craig Reinemeyer, DVM, PhD, president of East Tennessee Clinical Research in Knoxville, Tenn., provided invaluable insight into how to keep the risks of infectious diseases and parasites to a minimum at the Thoroughbred International ... Read full story
 7/29/2003
2003 Equine WNV Outlook for the United States  *
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Center for Epidemiology andAnimal Health, a part of USDA's Animal and Plant Health InspectionService's (APHIS) Veterinary Services program (VS), recently released itsoutlook for the occurrence of West Nile virus (WNV) in equids during 2003. The outlook discusses factors that influence the viral threat to equids andresistance of the equids to the disease. Furthermore, it discusses two mainfactors which influence ... Read full story
 7/23/2003
West Nile Virus Spreads: Horses in at Least 15 States Affected This Year  *
West Nile virus (WNV) is steadily spreading across the country, having been detected in at least 33 states so far this year*. Horses in 15 states have been infected with the virus in 2003; the most recent announcements of equine WNV cases were from Kansas and New Mexico. Health officials in Kansas announced July 9 that they had logged the state’s first equine WNV case for this year. Results on the Wichita County horse were received from Kansas State ... Read full story
 7/16/2003
Mexico Declares West Nile Virus State of Emergency  *
According to a Reuters health story distributed via ProMED-mail, Mexico has declared a state of emergency due to West Nile virus (WNV), declaring it a severe risk to the horse population and a growing public health threat. The first discovery of avian WNV in Mexico was made on May 16 in Tabasco state. The finding prompted the government to launch an equine vaccination campaign for the state. Since then, the disease has spread to horses in the states ... Read full story
 7/15/2003
2002 Economic Impact of WNV on Colorado and Nebraska   *
A study led by researchers at Colorado State University (CSU) found that West Nile virus (WNV) cost equine owners in Colorado and Nebraska more than $1.25 million in 2002, and prevention costs for WNV vaccination likely topped another $2.75 million for the equine industry in those states last year. In 2002, Colorado reported 378 confirmed cases of WNV in equids, and Nebraska reported 1,100. The study estimated that the total cost attributed to ... Read full story
 7/1/2003
USDA Clarification on the Issue of the West Nile Virus Vaccine: Vaccine Safe for Use  *
From the USDA: "Some recent stories have suggested that the Fort Dodge Animal Health West Nile Virus Vaccine approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) may cause pregnant mares to abort or give birth to deformed foals. The misleading information in those articles has sparked many anxious phone calls from horse owners, veterinarians, and others involved with horses. Unfortunately, as a result, USDA is concerned that horse owners may not ... Read full story
 6/26/2003
Veterinarians Debunk Suggested Link Between WNV Vaccine and Birth Problems  *
Despite recent media reports, Wyoming, Colorado, and USDA veterinarians say that there is currently no scientific proof to link the West Nile virus vaccine to aborted, stillborn, or deformed foals, and that horse owners should continue to vaccinate their animals to protect them from the deadly disease. Claims by a Denver newspaper that some pregnant mares may have been adversely affected by the popular vaccine are unfounded, according to spokespersons ... Read full story
 6/23/2003
Fort Dodge Speaks Out on WNV Vaccine  *
Over the course of the past few weeks, news articles and Internet rumors have surfaced regarding the West Nile-Innovator vaccine, the USDA-approved vaccine for protecting horses against West Nile virus. The rumors and misinformation pertain specifically to abortions and deformed foals following vaccination for West Nile virus. An article published in the Denver Post on May 30, 2003, has served to intensify the spread of inaccurate and misleading ... Read full story
 6/12/2003
West Nile Virus Vaccine: Adverse Effects in Mares?  *
Allegations that the West Nile virus vaccine might have caused abortions and deformed foals were made in a May 30 Denver Post article. Mare owners calling themselves the “Lost Foals Group” claim the vaccine has caused up to 1,200 abortions and nearly 300 deformed or dummy foals. However, top veterinarians dispute those allegations based on their experiences. Tom Riddle, DVM, of Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital in Lexington, Ky., said, “I can tell ... Read full story
 6/9/2003
Insurance Provides Comfort to Horse Owners and Breeders Against West Nile Virus  *
In Canada, Alberta and Ontario horse breeders and owners insured through CBL Oxford Insurance and Canada Brokerlink can feel confident that its horse mortality insurance policies will provide compensation for any horses killed by the West Nile virus (WNV). Canada Brokerlink Inc., one of the largest insurance brokers in Canada, has informed policyholders that as long as a horse has been vaccinated by a veterinarian and that follow-up vaccinations ... Read full story
 6/3/2003
First WNV Case of 2003 Detected In Florida   *
One equine case of West Nile virus (WNV) in Florida had been confirmed by serological testing as of May 1, according to Leroy Coffman, DVM, Florida's state veterinarian and director of the Division of Animal Industry. This was the first reported equine case of WNV in the state this year, and possibly the first in the United States this year. The WNV case was confirmed in an unvaccinated 10-month-old Quarter Horse in Levy County. The horse first ... Read full story
 6/1/2003
Canada Reports First 2003 Presumed WNV-Positive Bird   *
York Region Acting Medical Officer of Health, Hanif Kassam, MD, has announced that a dead crow has undergone testing and is presumed to be positive for West Nile virus (WNV). The crow was found in the town of Newmarket. The bird is the first presumed WNV-positive bird reported in the York Region of Ontario, and the first in Canada this year. Equine cases haven't been reported in Canada this year, but typically do not turn up until late summer. ... Read full story
 6/1/2003
First 2003 Kentucky Equine WNV Case Confirmed  *
Kentucky has its first confirmed case of West Nile virus (WNV) in an equine for 2003, the Kentucky Department of Agriculture's Division of Animal Health reported on Thursday. The 20-year-old pleasure horse is located in Madison County, said Rusty Ford, the Department's equine programs manager. The horse is recovering and the prognosis is good. "West Nile is here to stay, so we are not surprised that it has returned with the warmer weather," Agriculture ... Read full story
 5/29/2003
Kentucky Department of Agriculture's Mosquito Spraying Schedule Now Online  *
Local authorities and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA) have begun mosquito eradication efforts to combat the spread of West Nile virus (WNV). The KDA's mosquito spraying schedule can be found on the KDA web site at www.kyagr.com. The Department will spray for mosquitoes at the request of local officials and local health departments. Some county and city governments conduct their own spray program. "Mosquito spraying has become a public ... Read full story
 5/22/2003
West Nile Virus from the Front Lines  *
Bill Saville, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, is a veterinary epidemiologist in the Veterinary Preventive Medicine Department at The Ohio State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. In the past decade, Saville has become widely recognized for his studies of equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM), a neurologic disease that has affected thousands of horses in the United States. But lately, his name has become synonymous with another disease: West ... Read full story
 5/19/2003
The Ohio West Nile Virus Experience  *
When Bill Saville, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, was asked to form the Ohio West Nile Virus (WNV) Working Group in late 1999, the disease was still a distant concern in New York City where health officials had identified the first North American case of the virus in a dead crow in August 1999. By December 2000, the health problem was literally on Ohio’s doorstep when the virus was detected across the state line in Erie County, Pa. "I went to an international ... Read full story
 5/19/2003
Equine West Nile Virus Case in Arkansas  *
Arkansas state veterinarian Paul Norris, DVM, announced last week that a horse in the Ft. Smith area had been infected with West Nile virus (WNV). Testing on the Sebastian County horse was completed at USDA’s National Veterinary Services Laboratory. Sharon Williams, DVM, state public health veterinarian with the Department of Health, said, "The identification of West Nile virus in a horse is a reminder that the virus is here and we all need to take ... Read full story
 5/19/2003
Avian West Nile Virus in Louisiana   *
Two dead blue jays from Assumption and Jackson parishes and a dead cardinal from Union Parish have pushed Louisiana’s count of West Nile virus (WNV)-positive dead birds past 30. The total number of dead birds infected with the virus is now 33, with 541 birds tested this year and 3,091 reported. The three parishes these new dead birds came from previously had no birds that tested positive for the virus. West Nile virus specimens now have appeared ... Read full story
 5/16/2003
Nine EEE Cases in Georgia  *
According to several Georgia newspapers, Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) has struck nine horses in the southern part of the state. Only three cases were documented in Georgia in 2002. EEE is caused by a virus found in wild birds, and it is transmitted to horses and humans via the bite of an infected mosquito. Horses do not develop high enough levels of the EEE virus in their blood to be contagious to other animals or humans. "The mosquitoes that ... Read full story
 5/16/2003
First 2003 Equine WNV Case In North Dakota  *
North Dakota's state veterinarian Larry Schuler, DVM, reported the state's first 2003 equine case of West Nile virus (WNV) on May 8. According to Schuler, test results received from Texas A&M University indicated that a horse in the Fargo area (Cass County) had been infected with the virus. "Since the majority of West Nile virus cases usually appear from July through September, a positive case this early is unusual," said Tracy Miller, epidemiologist ... Read full story
 5/12/2003
First 2003 WNV Finding in Pennsylvania for 2003  *
On Monday, May 5, acting secretary for department of health Robert S. Muscalus reported the first positive test for the West Nile virus (WNV) in Pennsylvania in 2003. The virus was detected in a dead crow in Philadelphia. Acting Secretary for the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Kathleen A. McGinty emphasized the importance of homeowners to remove standing water from their properties to reduce mosquito breeding areas. West Nile virus ... Read full story
 5/8/2003
Report Released: Economic Impact of WNV on Colorado and Nebraska Equine Industries in 2002  *
A study led by researchers at Colorado State University determined that the effects of West Nile virus (WNV) cost equine owners in Colorado and Nebraska more than $1.25 million in 2002, and prevention costs for WNV vaccinations likely exceeded an additional $2.75 million for the equine industry in those states last year. In 2002, Colorado reported 378 and Nebraska reported 1,100 confirmed cases of WNV in equids, a family of animals that includes ... Read full story
 5/6/2003
Equine West Nile Virus Case in Minnesota  *
A 5-year-old Quarter Horse mare in Crow Wing County, was Minnesota's first equine West Nile virus (WNV) case for 2003, according to the Minnesota Board of Animal Health (MBAH). Paul Anderson, MBAH assistant director, said the virus was expected to appear again this year, but not so early in the season. The first U.S. equine WNV case of 2003 was reported in Florida in early April. The mare’s owner contacted his veterinarian on April 14 after the ... Read full story
 5/5/2003
California West Nile Virus Seminar   *
California is bracing for West Nile virus (WNV). N. James MacLachlan, BVSc, PhD, Professor and Chair of the Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology at the University of California, Davis, said that he and his colleagues expect to see the first dead birds infected with WNV in April, followed by the first horse and human cases in June and July. To help California horse owners prepare, the UC Davis Center for Equine Health (CEH) conducted ... Read full story
 5/1/2003
Box Containing WNV Explodes at Fed Ex Site   *
A package containing West Nile virus (WNV) exploded on March 18 at a Federal Express building in Columbus, Ohio, near the Port Columbus International Airport, the Associated Press reported. Fifty workers were evacuated. The shoebox-size sealed package probably burst because of dry ice used to preserve tissue samples from a bird with the virus. The package was being sent from the Ohio Department of Health to a researcher at the University of Texas, ... Read full story
 5/1/2003
West Nile Virus Innovator Vaccine  *
Rob Keene, DVM, field veterinarian for Fort Dodge Animal Health, talked about the West Nile virus (WNV) vaccine at the West Nile Virus Workshop held March 7 at the University of Kentucky's Gluck Equine Research Center. Keene explained plans for packaging and marketing the vaccine--which received a full license from the USDA on Feb. 6--and described the efforts already underway to combine the WNV antigen with others in future inoculations to be marketed. ... Read full story
 5/1/2003
Colorado State West Nile Virus Study   *
Colorado State University (CSU) researchers released results March 25 from a study that examined the characteristics of 2002's West Nile virus (WNV) equine outbreaks in Colorado and Nebraska. The study was a collaborative effort between the state veterinarians in Colorado and Nebraska, the Veterinary Diagnostic Center in Nebraska, and CSU's College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. Josie Traub-Dargatz, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVIM, and principal ... Read full story
 5/1/2003
Gluck West Nile Virus Workshop: A Review of WNV in Kentucky  *
Kentucky has kept extensive statistics on West Nile virus (WNV) cases in the state. At the March 7 West Nile Virus Workshop at the University of Kentucky's Gluck Equine Research Center, Rusty Ford, Kentucky equine programs manager, reviewed equine WNV statistics from past years. He also described how the state planned to make reporting cases easier in 2003. Of the 513 equine cases in Kentucky, 376 (73%) survived, 104 (20%) were euthanized, and ... Read full story
 5/1/2003
A Florida Practitioner's Perspective on WNV  *
Maureen Long, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, of the University of Florida (UF), spoke about West Nile virus (WNV) protective strategies for horse owners and veterinarians at a March 7 meeting in Lexington, Ky. Veterinarians and public officials gathered at the University of Kentucky's Gluck Equine Research Center for a workshop designed to educate local practitioners about the disease. Long and other practitioners in Florida have had considerable WNV experience ... Read full story
 5/1/2003
Canada Reports First 2003 Presumed WNV-Positive Bird  *
York Region Acting Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Hanif Kassam, has announced that a dead crow has undergone testing and is presumed to be positive for West Nile virus (WNV ). The crow was found in the town of Newmarket. The bird is the first presumed WNV-positive bird reported in the York Region of Ontario, and the first in Canada this year. Equine cases haven’t been reported in Canada this year, but typically do not turn up until late summer. ... Read full story
 4/29/2003
Mosquito Disease Could Slow Spread of West Nile Virus  *
A disease that kills mosquitoes could be one way to slow the spread of West Nile virus (WNV), the USDA said in an Associated Press story. Jim Becnel, a scientist with the USDA's Agricultural Research Service, said Wednesday he and a team of researchers have come up with a new method to kill mosquitoes by infecting them with an illness called baculovirus that works only on mosquitoes. The department wants companies to make mosquito-killing sprays ... Read full story
 4/25/2003
Pennsylvania Launches 2003 West Nile Virus Surveillance Program  *
Pennsylvania health official announced April 14 that Pennsylvania has launched this year's effort to detect and control mosquitoes that carry West Nile virus (WNV). "It's that time of the year againtime to get your yard back in shape or just get out and enjoy Pennsylvania's natural wonders," Acting Secretary Dr. Robert Muscalus said. "But don't forget about the mosquitoes. In 2002, West Nile virus was detected in 62 Pennsylvanians and contributed ... Read full story
 4/16/2003
Owners Recommended to Consult with Vet about WNV Vaccination  *
Now is the time for horse owners in Kentucky to consult withtheir veterinarians about vaccinating their animals for West Nile virus (WNV),Kentucky's Agriculture Commissioner Billy Ray Smith said. "West Nile virus was diagnosed in 513 equine and 75 humans in Kentucky lastyear," Smith said. "Kentuckians can take steps now to reducethe risk of West Nile later in the year when the mosquito population is atits peak." Mosquitoes transmit WNV from infected ... Read full story
 4/4/2003
EEE and WNV Hit Florida  *
Ten cases of Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) and one case of West Nile virus (WNV) have been confirmed by serological testing as of April 3 in eight Florida counties, according to Leroy Coffman, DVM, Florida’s state veterinarian and director of the Division of Animal Industry. This is the first reported case of WNV in Florida this year, and possibly the first in the United States this year. Nine of the cases of EEE--six are confirmed dead--and ... Read full story
 4/3/2003
WNV and Equine Abortions?   *
A question has been raised whether the increased number of West Nile virus (WNV) cases in Kentucky in late summer and fall 2002 contributed to a rise in fall abortions. A retrospective study by the University of Kentucky's Livestock Disease and Diagnostic Center (LDDC), from July of 2002 through early 2003, looked at 400 equine abortions for evidence of WNV. Their findings were "surprising," said LDDC head Lenn Harrison, VMD. Of the 400 examined, ... Read full story
 4/1/2003
West Nile Virus Vaccine Receives Full Licensure   *
The USDA has issued a full license to Fort Dodge Animal Health for its West Nile virus (WNV) vaccine, which has been distributed under a conditional license since August of 2001. Results of efficacy studies completed and submitted to the USDA qualified the vaccine for full licensure. According to Tom Overbay, DVM, director of Field Veterinary Services at Fort Dodge, 95% of horses vaccinated with two doses of the vaccine and challenged with the live ... Read full story
 4/1/2003
Colorado State Releases West Nile Virus Survey Study  *
Researchers at Colorado State University's College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences today released results from a research project that summarizes the background characterization of last year's outbreak of West Nile virus (WNV) in equids from Colorado and Nebraska. "The objective of the study was to describe the equine West Nile virus cases in Colorado and Nebraska in order to better understand the progression of clinical disease, ... Read full story
 3/25/2003
Box Containing Virus Explodes at Fed Ex Site  *
The Associated Press reported in the New York Times that a package containing West Nile virus exploded on Tuesday night (March 18) at a Federal Express building in Columbus, Ohio. Fifty workers were evacuated. “Fire officials said dry ice used to preserve tissue samples with live virus might have caused the shoebox-size package to burst at the FedEx office near Port Columbus International Airport,” said the report. “The package, from the Ohio Department ... Read full story
 3/20/2003
House Passes Bill Aimed at West Nile Virus Prevention  *
In a 416-9 vote, the U.S. House of Representatives has passed a bill that would authorize $100 million in grants for communities to develop mosquito-control programs, according to an Associated Press news release. Lawmakers hope the bill, which also passed the House last year, will slow the spread of the West Nile virus, which ran rampant across the United States last year, killing more than 100 people. The measure would target areas with high ... Read full story
 3/14/2003
Gluck West Nile Virus Workshop: A Review of WNV in Kentucky  *
Kentucky has kept extensive statistics on West Nile virus (WNV) cases in the state. At the March 7 West Nile Virus Workshop at the University of Kentucky’s Gluck Equine Research Center, Rusty Ford, Kentucky Equine Programs Manager, reviewed equine WNV statistics from past years. He also described how the state planned to make reporting cases easier in 2003. West Nile virus was first detected in horses in Kentucky in August of 2001. The mortality ... Read full story
 3/13/2003
West Nile Virus Workshop: WNV and Public Health  *
"This is the largest arboviral (disease) epidemic ever documented in the Western Hemisphere," said Sue Billings, DVM, MSPH, Kentucky Department for Public Health Medical Epidemiologist. Billings has been working with the public health side of West Nile virus (WNV) surveillance since the virus first appeared in mosquitoes, birds, and horses in Kentucky in 2001. Billings attended a recent WNV conference in New Orleans, La., gaining insight on the new ... Read full story
 3/13/2003
West Nile Virus Innovator Vaccine  *
Rob Keene, DVM, field veterinarian for Fort Dodge Animal Health, talked about the West Nile virus vaccine at the West Nile Virus (WNV) Workshop held March 7 at the University of Kentucky’s Gluck Equine Research Center. Keene explained plans for packaging and marketing the vaccine--which received a full license from the USDA on Feb. 6--and described the efforts already underway to combine the WNV antigen with others in future inoculations to be marketed. Veterinarians ... Read full story