An unvaccinated horse that died in St. Joseph County is confirmed to have had West Nile Virus (WNV).

The Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency was informed of the horse’s virus status by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. As of September 13, 2024, 49 birds and three horses statewide have been confirmed to have WNV. As of September 19, there have been 14 human cases in 11 counties, but none in the Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph region.

“We have seen an increase in human and animal cases across the state of Michigan since our first reported animals found in the jurisdiction on September 9, 2024,” Health Officer Rebecca Burns said. “Residents are reminded to take steps to reduce their risk of exposure to mosquitos. West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis are two diseases that can be transmitted to humans and animals through mosquito bites.”

West Nile Virus is not shared person to person, or animal to person. An infected mosquito must bite an individual or animal. Most people who are infected with the virus will show mild or no symptoms. If someone experiences symptoms, it is usually between 3-15 days of being bitten.

Mild symptoms include fever, confusion, muscle weakness and severe headache. More serious complications may include meningitis or encephalitis. West Nile Virus can affect anyone, but individuals over the age of 50 are at increased risk for more severe symptoms. If you experience serious symptoms, contact your health care provider.

Taking precautions to reduce mosquito bites when outdoors at dawn and dusk can reduce your risk. These include wearing long sleeve, light colored clothing, using an EPA registered insect repellent as directed, and deterring mosquitoes from your property by eliminating and reducing potential breeding areas.

To protect your animals, talk to your veterinarian about vaccinating horses against EEE. Place horses in a barn under fans during peak mosquito activity from dusk to dawn. Use an insect repellant on the animals that is approved for the species. Standing water should also be eliminated.

“Contact your veterinarian if a horse shows signs of the illness: loss of awareness of their surroundings, walk in circles, exhibit muscle paralysis, stupor, lethargy, and loss of coordination,” the agency stated.