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West Nile Confirmed in Kansas Horse

Posted on: Wednesday, 13 July 2005, 18:01 CDT

By Tara White

THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

A horse in Anderson County, in east-central Kansas, has tested positive for West Nile virus.

According to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, it is the first known case of the virus in a Kansas animal this year. A human case was reported in the state three weeks ago.

Horses can be protected from the virus with vaccines. No human vaccine is available, but precautions like insect repellents with DEET and protective clothing can be taken.

Sam Graham, state veterinarian with the Kansas Animal Health Department, said Monday all horses should be vaccinated.

"That is the recommendation of most vets since it is the only way to protect the animals," he said.

The vaccine costs about $20.

Sharon Watson, communication director at KDHE, said that in 2002, before a vaccine was available, about 800 cases were found. When it became available the next year there were 90 known cases.

Two types of human West Nile cases have been reported --- non- neuroinvasive and neuroinvasive.

Non-neuroinvasive symptoms may include fever, headache, rash, general muscle aches, weakness and inflammation of the lymph nodes.

Neuroinvasive cases have more severe symptoms, including high fever, difficulty walking, coma and swelling of brain tissue, and can result in death.

Those with serious symptoms should go to an emergency room, Watson said.

This is the fourth year West Nile virus has been reported in Kansas.

It is primarily an avian disease but can be spread to humans and animals after a mosquito bites an infected bird.

Watson said private medical research institutions across the nation are working to develop a human vaccine that may be available in the next few years. Until then, she said, people should exercise caution.

A person who contracts West Nile becomes immune to it.

Watson said people older than 50 and those with weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable.

Source: Topeka Capital Journal

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