SC Horses at risk of Deadly Mosquitoe Viruses

Last year in South Carolina, there were 10 cases of West Nile Virus in horses and another nine of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), according to Clemson University’s Livestock-Poultry Health. West Nile and EEE are transmitted to horses by mosquitoes. Reducing mosquito populations around the farm is a good first step, but only vaccination can prevent the disease from developing once infected. Livestock-Poultry Health, a regulatory arm of Clemson University’s Public Service and Agriculture Unit, recommends at least annual vaccinations for both Eastern and Western Equine Encephalitis, West Nile Virus and rabies in consultation with the owner’s veterinarian. In South Carolina, any livestock, including horses, that display neurologic signs, such as stumbling, circling, head-pressing, depression or apprehension, must be reported to the state veterinarian at 803-788-2260 within 48 hours, according to state law. Information on animal diseases and reporting requirements can be found on the Livestock-Poultry Health website, www.clemson.edu/lph.