Deadly mosquito born virus found in N.C., what you need to know
Animal owners are now on high alert after North Carolina state officials announce the first case of EEE or Eastern Equine Encephalomyelitis found in the state. A four-year-old mare in Cumberland County was put down after contracting the virus, that can cause inflammation or swelling of the brain and spinal cord.
The virus impacts horses, birds and rodents, and is often fatal Unfortunately once an animal is bitten by a mosquito and infected, it may take three to 10 days for signs of the disease to appear
Spectrum News anchor Caroline Blair sat down with Dr. Mike Neault, the Director of Livestock Health Programs for Veterinarian Services for the North Carolina Department of Agriculture, and member of the NC Veterinary Medical Association, for a look at ways we can prevent the spread of the virus
The virus impacts horses, birds and rodents, and is often fatal. And although it can infect humans, right now it’s not believed the virus can be spread from animals
to humans. Unfortunately, once an animal is bitten by a mosquito and infected, it may take three to 10 days for signs of the disease to appear.
State officials say symptoms include:
■ Impaired vision
■ Aimless wandering
■ Head pressing
■ Circling
■ Inability to swallow
■ Irregular staggering gait
■ Paralysis
■ Convulsions
■ Death
There is some good news however. Spectrum News anchor Caroline Blair sat down with Dr. Mike Neault, the Director of Livestock Health Programs for Veterinarian Services for the North Carolina Department of Agriculture, and member of the NC Veterinary Medical Association, for a look at ways we can prevent the spread of the virus.
How to Prevent the Spread of EEE
Make sure your animals are properly vaccinated for the virus (horses, mules & donkeys)
■ Remove any source of standing water to reduce mosquito exposure
■ Use insect repellents
■ Keep horses in stalls at night
■ Use insect screens and fans
■ Turn off lights after dusk