Kentucky Horse Tests Positive for WNV

A 6-year-old Standardbred mare from Fleming County, Kentucky, tested positive for West Nile virus Sept. 2.
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A 6-year-old Standardbred mare from Fleming County, Kentucky, tested positive for West Nile virus today (Sept. 2), according to a report from E.S. "Rusty" Ford, equine programs manager for the Office of the State Veterinarian.

The mare reportedly began displaying rear limb ataxia (incoordination) on Aug. 26. The signs progressed to forelimb ataxia and changes in mentation (mentality) before tests carried out at the University of Kentucky Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory confirmed she was WNV-positive earlier today, the report said.

The affected horse, who is recovering at a veterinary clinic, has no prior WNV vaccination history.

This is Kentucky’s first confirmed case of WNV this year. Cases have already been confirmed in Georgia, California, Nevada, and Texas in 2011

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Erica Larson, former news editor for The Horse, holds a degree in journalism with an external specialty in equine science from Michigan State University in East Lansing. A Massachusetts native, she grew up in the saddle and has dabbled in a variety of disciplines including foxhunting, saddle seat, and mounted games. Currently, Erica competes in eventing with her OTTB, Dorado.

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