08/20/2026
🦟 West Nile Virus in Horses 🐴
Mosquito season means it’s time to talk about West Nile Virus (WNV)—a serious disease that can affect horses and, in some cases, cause life-threatening neurologic disease.
What should you watch for?
Signs can vary, but may include:
• Fever
• Depression or weakness
• Stumbling or incoordination
• Muscle tremors or twitching
• Difficulty walking or standing
• Head pressing or unusual behavior
• Seizures
• Partial paralysis
Testing:
If a horse develops neurologic signs, we may recommend testing to help determine if West Nile Virus or another disease is responsible. Several conditions can cause similar neurologic signs, so testing can be an important part of figuring out what’s going on.
Treatment:
Unfortunately, there is no specific medication that cures West Nile Virus. Treatment is primarily supportive care and may include fluids, anti-inflammatory medications, nutritional support, and medications to control seizures or other complications. Horses with severe neurologic disease may require intensive nursing care.
The GOOD NEWS: Prevention is available! 💉
Vaccination is one of the best ways to help protect horses against West Nile Virus. Keeping horses on an appropriate vaccination schedule can significantly reduce the risk of severe disease.
🦟 If your horse is due for vaccines, give us a call and let’s get them protected.
Wyobraska Veterinary Services — keeping your horses healthy, one mile at a time.🐴💉