On July 27, Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) was confirmed both Santa Rosa and Bradford Counties in Florida. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services reported on July 20 that an 8-year-old pony mare in Santa Rosa presented with incoordination, hind-end weakness and the inability to stand. The mare was euthanized. There was no EEE vaccination history
The horse with EEE in Bradford County was a 7-year-old pony gelding that began exhibiting signs on July 18. He was also unable to stand and uncoordinated. The gelding was also euthanized; he was undervaccinated.
These two horses are the 13th and 14th case of EEE in Florida in 2020.
EEE is a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes that affects the central nervous system of horses. Horses with EEE can have a fever, be depressed, have no interest in food or show difficulty swallowing. Additionally, the horse may have behavior changes like aggression or drowsiness, or walk circles, press his head or become blind.
Fatality rates for EEE are between 75 and 80 percent, with death occurring two to three days after clinical signs come on. Horses that survive may have residual impairment.
EEE vaccinations are available and significantly reduce the risk of infection. Additionally, horse owners and caretakers should reduce mosquito populations as much as possible by removing standing water and applying insect repellent to equines.
Read more at Equine Disease Communication Center.
For more information about EEE, visit AAEP.
The post Two EEE Cases In Florida Euthanized appeared first on Horse Racing News | Paulick Report.
