West Nile, the disease, is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito carrying the virus, which may develop into a brain inflammation disease in humans, horses and birds.
The Navajo Nation has one (1) area of where a positive horse has been confirmed with the West Nile Virus: the Chinle Valley, in 2013.
The NNVLP is urging the public to take precautions against the bite of mosquitoes; once again the “Fight the Bite” prevention for people and horses is stressed. Prevent mosquitoes from breeding by decreasing standing water around your home and stables. Use insect repellants to prevent bites to horses and make sure all horses have WNV vaccinations in place. People should utilize your DEET products to prevent mosquito bites and limit early morning and evening hours outside when mosquito activity is the highest; wear protective clothing if you need to be outside during these times.
Horses are the main animals susceptible to the West Nile Virus. West Nile Virus does not usually affect animals other than horses and other equine. West Nile Virus is not a contagious disease from horse to horse so there is no quarantine issued for this disease.
According to the Navajo Nation Veterinary and Livestock Program, signs and symptoms of WNV infection in horses may include:
One of the first signs usually is head droop, loss of coordination, stumbling, or staggering, circling, weakness or paralysis of limbs, inability to stand, muscle twitches or tremors, apparent blindness, lip droop, grinding teeth, and death. These signs are not specific for WNV infection, and may be caused by other diseases including rabies.