By Charlie Powell, College of Veterinary Medicine
PULLMAN, Wash. – Following the announcement of the state’s first two West Nile Virus cases for 2017, Washington State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine is offering important resources for horse owners.
WSU’s (WADDL) in Pullman reported the positive test results to WSDA’s State Veterinarian’s Office this week. Both horses were from Spokane County.
Horse owners can find a Frequently Asked Questions fact sheet on the virus at the WADDL website, https://waddl.vetmed.wsu.edu/animal-disease-faq/west-nile-virus .
Also, the WSU veterinary college has made an online webinar available to horse owners free of charge. The 45-minute webinar was conducted by Dr. Jen Gold, an equine internal medicine specialist and head of WSU’s equine medicine service. Interested parties can access the webinar here at https://apps.vetmed.wsu.edu/CVME/Content/Courses/public/WestNileVirus/owner.html .
Horse owners are encouraged to check their horses’ vaccination status, maintain sound mosquito control measures and limit exposure when possible. Owners with questions should contact their local veterinarian for advice. WSU’s equine medicine service as always remains open to the public without referral by calling 509-335-0711.
Media Contact:
- Charlie Powell, WSU College of Veterinary Medicine, public information officer, call or text 509-595-2017, or cpowell@vetmed.wsu.edu