Valley Springs, CA — A Valley Springs horse is the first in Calaveras County to test positive for the West Nile Virus.
The animal was euthanized earlier this month after falling ill and tests have confirmed that it suffered from West Nile; a virus spread though mosquitoes.
The county Health department says it is important for local residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites, and have their horses vaccinated.
A bird tested positive for West Nile last month in Calaveras. Last year, nine birds carried the virus.
Calaveras County has yet to see it´s first human case. Officials recommend using mosquito repellent with DEET, dressing in long sleeves and pants, and staying in doors at dawn and dusk.
This post was last modified on 01/31/2009 2:30 pm