WJJQ LOCAL NEWS
Area horses contracting EEE

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Two horses in Lincoln County have tested positive for Equine Encephalitis.

The virus is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito to horses, birds, other animals, and humans, though rarely. There has only been one case of a human infection since 1984 in Wisconsin.

Lincoln County Health Officer Shelley Hersil says, "Lincoln County residents need to be more vigilant in their personal protective measures to prevent mosquito bites and it is important people contact their healthcare provider if they suspect they have the illness."

The Lincoln County Health Department recommends mosquito repellent, long and loose-fitting clothing and eliminating mosquito breeding grounds.

Horses have been reported to have the virus in Marathon, Taylor, Clark and Price Counties as well as Lincoln. Encephalitis symptoms in horses include depression, loss of appetite, and drooping eyelids and lower lip. Horses should be vaccinated each year according to the health department.

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