EEE In Southeastern US
Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) season is well underway. EEE is a devastating mosquito-borne disease that can infect (and usually kill) horses and people. It is a regionally important disease that infects many horses in some regions and none elsewhere, mainly based on the types of mosquitoes and birds in the area. The southeastern US is a hotbed, and cases are now being reported in areas such as Florida and Georgia. It is very important that horse owners make themselves aware of infectious disease risks in their own areas, including the risk of EEE. It is equally important for owners to be aware of the disease risks in any areas to which they may take (or send) their horses. Knowing the risks is necessary to develop a logical and effective infection control program.
EEE causes severe neurological disease in horses and people. Horses and people are infected after being bitten by a mosquito that was infected by feeding from an infected bird. Infection is often fatal.
The keys to prevention (for horses and people) are:
1. Avoid mosquito bites by:
- Reducing mosquito breeding grounds (i.e. standing water)
- Staying away from mosquito-infested areas, particularly at dusk or dawn.
- Wearing clothes that cover your arms and legs
- Wearing a DEET-based repellent when outside
2. Vaccination
- EEE vaccination is important in areas where the disease is present. Ideally, vaccination should be performed approximately one month prior to the time of year when cases start to occur, but late is better than never.
More information about EEE can be found in our archives.
Photo: Horse in a full-body fly sheet. Good in theory but not very helpful in hot weather. (click image for source)
