Horse tests positive for West Nile virus in Wadena County

A 3-year-old quarter horse filly in Wadena County has tested positive for West Nile virus in Wadena County, according to the Minnesota Board of Animal Health (BAH).

The BAH said a vet was called on Aug. 19 to examine the horse because it couldn’t stand on its rear legs. While the filly didn’t have an elevated temperature, the veterinarian collected samples for testing that came back positive for West Nile virus.

"The affected horse appears to be recovering from the disease at this time, which is good to see since it was not current on its vaccination boosters," said Dr. Brian Hoefs, senior veterinarian of the equine program. "Horse owners should work with their veterinarian on a routine vaccination program to reduce the risk of these preventable diseases and increase the animal’s chances of recovering fully if they’re infected."

The virus is regularly found in the U.S. with birds serving as the primary host of the disease, according to the BAH. The virus circulates between infected birds and mosquitoes, which can then transmit the virus to horses or people.

The board said the virus can cause encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, but a complete recovery is possible, especially for horses with a history of annual vaccination.

This is also a high-risk time of year for West Nile virus transmission, officials say.