Update on Eastern Encephalitis

Eastern Equine Encephalitis is a viral neurologic disease that can infect horses and humans.  This disease is spread by mosquitos.  It cannot be spread from horse to horse or horse to human.

The eastern strain of encephalitis has a mortality rate near 100% in non-vaccinated horses.  Humans rarely develop symptoms, but when they do symptoms range from mild flu-like symptoms to fatality.

In horses, the symptoms may be a lack of interest in eatin, pacing, loss of balance, blindness, or an inability to stand.  There is no treatment, only supportive care.

There is a very effective and protective, vaccine.  It is administered in the spring prior to mosquito season.  It is usually given as a combination vaccine called "three way."  Western Encephalitis and Tetanus Toxoid are also in the vaccine.