Horses In Mother Lode Not Affected By West Nile Virus

Sonora, CA– Although half of California horses infected with West Nile virus this year have died, horses in the Mother Lode have not been affected.

Owner and Veterinarian of Jamestown Veterinary Hospital, Tommy Sue Henderson says she has not heard of a single case this year. She says she does remember however, three cases last year.

Henderson believes the good news is thanks to good mosquito control in the Mother Lode. Symptoms of West Nile Virus can range from a fever, loss of appetite, in coordination or neurological signs. Henderson says horses can recover from the virus just as humans can a cold if it is treated early.

To get a horse vaccinated, the cost is about $25 and takes one to three weeks from appointment to become effective. Henderson recommends a horse get the vaccine yearly, but if a horse is in an area with an abundant amount of mosquitoes, additional vaccinations may be needed.

Written by Alisha.cruz