EEE Confirmed in Louisiana
Posted:
The disease causes encephalitis, or swelling of the brain, in both horses and humans. Humans and horses contract the disease from a mosquito that has bitten an infected bird.
Following
the first confirmed case of Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) and
resulting equine death this year, horse owners are being reminded to
vaccinate their horses since there is no cure for EEE. The affected
horse was stabled in Rapides Parish.![]()
This
is a public health concern and we are asking all horse owners to make
sure their animals have up-to-date vaccinations and to consult a
veterinarian if their horses are displaying any symptoms. State
officials said Eastern equine encephalitis has a mortality rate of 90
percent. The disease causes encephalitis, or swelling of the brain, in
both horses and humans. Humans and horses contract the disease from a
mosquito that has bitten an infected bird. Infected horses become
depressed and uncoordinated, develop a sleepy appearance, walk in
circles and eventually collapse to the ground. Owners with horses
displaying any of these signs should contact their local veterinarian.
The
Department of Agriculture and Forestry is working with local
veterinarians, horse owner groups, health officials and local mosquito
abatement programs to monitor the spread of the disease.
