A horse was diagnosed with Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in Jefferson County last week. EEE is a viral disease transmitted by mosquitos and affects both horses and humans. The virus is found in birds and is transmitted by a mosquito which has bitten an infected bird and then bites a horse or human. The disease is NOT transmitted from horse to horse, horse to human or human to human by mosquito bites or other contact.

The best prevention is vaccination, but immunity takes some time to develop. In the short term, your best bet is modifying your environment to reduce mosquito populations. For details of symptoms and other information on the disease, check on this information from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine’s website. http://largeanimal.vethospitals.ufl.edu/services/internal-medicine/eastern-equine-encephalitis-eee/

If you suspect your horse may be infected, contact your veterinarian.

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