The latest report for the California State Veterinary Offices shows 3 cases of West Nile Virus so far in California this year. The horses were all unvaccinated – one of the horses had to be put to sleep. That’s following 15 cases in 2011.
CLICK HERE to see information from the California Department of Food and Agriculture on West Nile Virus.
DR. RAMEY NOTES: West Nile Virus hasn’t gone away. It will always be with us. There won’t be any huge outbreaks like there were when the virus first appeared in the late 1990’s, because the virus has mutated somewhat, and there is a large pool of immune horses, both from vaccines and natural exposure.
However, it’s still very important to get your horse vaccinated against West Nile Virus at least once a year, and perhaps more if your horse travels to mosquito-laden areas of the United States (for example, for horse shows). West Nile Virus is not the big deal that it once was, but you sure don’t want your horse to get it. Make sure your horse is vaccinated – it’s pretty cheap insurance.
