A Horse in Lincoln County has tested positive for the West Nile Virus

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (KNOP) - The West Central District Health Department has confirmed a positive test for West Nile Virus in a horse located in Lincoln County.

According to a press release issued by West Central District Health Department Executive Director, Shannon Vanderheiden, in response, the West Central District Health Department is advising that horse owners consult their veterinarians in order to implement appropriate measures for protecting their horses against West Nile Virus.

The West Central District Health Department is recommending that horses receive an annual vaccination for West Nile Virus, Horses that have not previously been vaccinated will require a booster to be fully protected, according to the West Central District Health Department.

Owners can also practice good mosquito control, by removing standing water, cleaning water troughs regularly, using mosquito repellents, and bringing horses inside at dawn and dusk, which are peak mosquito feeding periods. Humans and horses cannot spread the disease to each other. WNV can be transmitted to humans and horses through mosquito bites.

Humans should wear EPA-registered bug spray to protect against mosquitoes. The West Central District Health Department has additional information on its website, www.wcdhd.org, or the Nebraska Department of Agriculture’s website.

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