West Nile virus confirmed in Belgian horse

The Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain (FAVV) has officially confirmed the first case of West Nile virus in a horse in Belgium. The infected animal, located in Vilvoorde, exhibited severe neurological symptoms and was subsequently euthanized.

The virus is transmitted to humans and horses through mosquito bites and is not spread directly between people or animals. While most human infections are asymptomatic or mild, approximately 1% of cases can lead to severe illness, such as meningitis, particularly in elderly or immunocompromised populations.

Health authorities and the Walloon Veterinarians Association (UPV) noted that because horses often show clearer symptoms than humans, they serve as an early warning system for viral circulation in a region. Experts recommend preventive measures including the use of insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and eliminating standing water to reduce mosquito activity. Vaccination for horses is currently available in Belgium to mitigate the risk of serious neurological complications.