Equine West Nile Virus Possibly on the Rise - KTUL.com - Tulsa, Oklahoma - News, Weather & Sports

The number of equine West Nile Virus cases seems higher this year than normal. The U.S. Geological Survey recently reported that there have 77 cases as of August 14th. One of those was in Oklahoma.

Dr. Wade Spradley at Legacy Equine Clinic said they have not treated any cases of Equine West Nile this year but said the national numbers seem high. He said it is important to vaccinate your horses twice a year. Each vaccination is less than $25.

He said horses get the virus from mosquito bites, like people. Similarly, age and preexisting health conditions are factors. He said vaccinations and natural exposure have limited the number of horses in the area from getting West Nile.

Symptoms of Equine West Nile Virus include fatigue, twitching near the eyes and nose, and flu-like symptoms. They usually take about two weeks to appear. Like people, most horses do not show symptoms and survive the virus.

He said the Tulsa area's dry summer has helped prevent more cases of West Nile as well. There have been fewer mosquitoes due to the heat. He said there could be more cases in the area as we near September, when mosquito populations are typically higher.

There is no real treatment for Equine West Nile Virus. Dr. Spradley said veterinarians provide supportive care and can administer fluids.

Channel 8 spoke with a horse owner Tuesday who regularly vaccinates her horse.

"I, from day one, have been told you get your horses vaccinated, just like your dogs and cats," said Rachael Tucker. "You have to, because you care about them, and for everybody else's safety as well."