Summer is the time of year when mosquitoes are in full swing. Several diseases that are transmitted by these pesky insects come to mind including Eastern and Western Equine Encephalomyelitis and West Nile Virus (WNV). Since first being recognized in the US in 1999, West Nile Virus has posed a serious threat to horses and humans alike. In the equine population, the virus is transmitted when a mosquito takes a blood meal from a bird infected with WNV, then feeds on a horse.1-tiger-mosquito-mosquito-asian-tigermucke-sting While many horses exposed to West Nile Virus experience no signs of illness, the virus can cause inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. In some cases, especially older horses, West Nile Virus can be fatal. As a horse owner, prevention is the key to reducing your horse’s risk of contracting West Nile Virus. Follow these guidelines from the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) to help protect your horse against West Nile Virus.

1. Consider vaccinating your horse against the disease. Talk with your veterinarian about the most appropriate vaccination schedule for your horse.
2. Eliminate potential mosquito breeding sites. Dispose of old receptacles, tires and containers and eliminate areas of standing water.
3. Thoroughly clean livestock watering troughs at least monthly.
4. Use larvicides to control mosquito populations when it is not possible to eliminate particular breeding sites. Such action should only be taken, however, in consultation with your local mosquito control authority.
5. Keep your horse indoors during peak mosquito activity periods of dusk to dawn.
6. Screen stalls if possible or at least install fans over your horse to help deter mosquitoes.
7. Avoid turning on lights inside the stable during the evening or overnight.
8. Reduce the chance of being bitten by using insect repellants on your horse that are designed to repel mosquitoes.9. Remove any birds, including chickens, located in or close to a stable.
10. Don’t forget to protect yourself as well! When outdoors in the evening, wear clothing that covers your skin and apply plenty of mosquito repellent.