West Nile virus detected in horses in Gran Canaria

The West Nile virus has been detected for the first time in the Canary Islands. Three horses at a single facility in the south of Gran Canaria, specifically in the municipality of San Bartolomé de Tirajana, have tested positive for the virus.

The detection occurred through the National Surveillance Program for West Nile Fever in animals. The first case was identified after a veterinarian reported neurological symptoms. Subsequent investigations located two additional asymptomatic horses at the same location. Samples were confirmed by the Algete Central Veterinary Laboratory, the national reference center.

Authorities have classified this as a primary focus, meaning it cannot be linked to other known outbreaks. While the virus has previously been detected via antibodies in migratory birds in the archipelago, this marks the first confirmation of active circulation. As of the latest reports, there are no confirmed human cases associated with this outbreak. Veterinary and sanitary surveillance protocols have been activated in the Maspalomas area.