Equine West Nile and EEE cases reported in Florida, Colorado, and Utah

New cases of West Nile virus (WNV) and Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) have been reported in several U.S. states, affecting equine populations.

In Florida, an under-vaccinated 16-year-old Quarter Horse in Indian River County tested positive for both EEE and WNV. The animal exhibited neurological symptoms, including ataxia and extreme somnolence, and was subsequently euthanized. EEE is considered a serious mosquito-borne disease due to high mortality rates in both horses and humans.

In the Western United States, WNV cases were confirmed in Colorado and Utah. In Weld County, Colorado, a vaccinated yearling Paint filly was euthanized after developing neurological signs. In Utah, one horse tested positive in Weber County, and two horses tested positive in Duchesne County.

Veterinary experts note that while WNV has no cure, vaccines can be effective prevention tools. Horses may require annual boosters or a two-shot series if previously unvaccinated to maintain protection against mosquito-borne illnesses.