Document Type

Other

Publication Date

5-1-2006

Keywords

west nile virus, vaccination, south dakota, horses

Extension Number

ExEx 11009

Department

Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences

Description

Because West Nile Virus (WNV) has appeared statewide in South Dakota, horses in all counties are at risk of exposure. History indicates that WNV will continue to be present for years to come. Several commercial WNV vaccines are available for horses. Field observation suggests the vaccines are effective, and experiments indicate proper vaccination may prevent 94% or more of WNV cases. Few adverse reactions have been reported. Epidemiologic data suggests that vaccinated horses are 3 to 16 times less likely to die from WNV infections than are non-vaccinated horses.

Comments

Updated May 2006

COinS