2007 PRESS RELEASES

August 10, 2007
SECOND CASE OF EASTERN EQUINE ENCEPHALITIS CONFIRMED IN VIRGINIA
Contact: Elaine Lidholm, 804.786.7686

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) has confirmed a second positive case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). The horse, a seven-year old Quarter horse gelding, was from Suffolk. It developed neurologic symptoms on August 4, gradually worsened during the day, and was euthanized that evening. Its vaccination history is uncertain. The first case of EEE, another horse from Suffolk, was euthanized in June.

VDACS advises horse owners to vaccinate their animals every six to twelve months against EEE. This is particularly important in the Southeastern region of Virginia, where the Agency recommends the six-month vaccination interval. Vaccination includes an initial shot, with a booster six weeks later, then boosters every six to twelve months. Vaccinations must be administered correctly and in a timely fashion to be effective.

Generally, EEE is transmitted by mosquitoes. Typical symptoms include staggering, circling, depression, loss of appetite and sometimes fever and blindness. There is no cure for the disease, but generally it can be prevented through vaccination. Other prevention methods include destroying standing water breeding sites for mosquitoes, use of insect repellents, and removing animals from mosquito-infested areas during peak biting times, usually dusk to dawn.

For more information, please contact the VDACS Division of Animal and Food Industry Services/State Veterinarian at 804.692.0601 or consult your local veterinarian.