First 2017 case of equine West Nile virus confirmed in Spokane County horse

A horse in Four Lakes is the first in Washington to contract West Nile virus this year, the Washington state Department of Agriculture said in a news release.

The 10-year-old quarter horse was unvaccinated for the disease and has had some muscle coordination problems which are showing improvement.

West Nile virus is spread by mosquitoes that have fed on infected birds. It can infect horses, birds and people, but does not spread directly from horses to people or other animals.

Last year, Washington had 27 confirmed West Nile cases in horses, with seven deaths or euthanizations. Spokane County had eight cases, the most of any county in the state.

Many horses infected with the virus will show symptoms or become ill. In horses that do get sick, symptoms include loss of coordination, loss of appetite, fever, stiffness and muscle weakness.

Spring is the best time to vaccinate horses, but vaccines can still be effective now.

“Horses can still benefit from first-time vaccinations or an annual booster vaccination,” state Veterinarian Brian Joseph said in the release. “It’s never too late to vaccinate your horse, but it’s more effective to do it earlier than now.”

Keeping horses inside during early morning and evening, when mosquitoes are feeding, and limiting breeding grounds by removing stagnant water, will help prevent the disease.

Veterinarians who learn about potential West Nile virus cases in animals should contact the state veterinarian’s office at (360) 902-1878.

There has been one human confirmed case of West Nile virus in Pierce County so far this year, and 10 positive tests in mosquitoes, with nine of those in Yakima County, according to the Department of Health.