Boundary County horses tested positive for West Nile virus

Two dead horses in Boundary County have tested positive for West Nile virus, the Panhandle Health District said Friday.

Both horses were unvaccinated, according to health district officials, who said the outbreak is the first evidence of the mosquito-borne virus in the Boundary County since 2014.

“We know mosquitoes carrying West Nile can live in North Idaho and mosquito pools have tested positive in the past,” said Jeff Lee, epidemiologist at Panhandle Health District. “Residents should be aware of West Nile Virus and take simple precautions to protect themselves against mosquito bites.”

Most people don’t experience symptoms from West Nile virus, though flu-like symptoms, swollen lymph glands or a skin rash can occur two to 14 days after the infection.

The Panhandle Health District recommends avoiding mosquito bites by using repellent, limiting time outdoors at dawn and dusk and eliminating mosquito breeding grounds.

More information: www.westnile.idaho.gov.