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Horse owners and vets warned of flavivirus threat

MEDIA RELEASE
  
Friday 6 January 2012

Horse owners are being warned to minimise the risk of mosquito bites on their horses this summer due to the threat of mosquito-borne flaviviruses such as Kunjin and Murray Valley Encephalitis (MVE).

The detection of flavivirus in blood samples taken from ‘sentinel’ birds in South Australia’s Far North and interstate, as part of regular monitoring, has prompted the warning for horse owners and vets.

South Australia’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Rob Rahaley, said that while no confirmed cases of flavivirus in horses in SA had occurred since last April, horse owners should minimise the potential for these mosquito-borne viruses to occur during summer and early autumn.

“Currently mosquito numbers and climatic conditions lean towards a lower level of arbovirus activity than last year but horse owners should take measures to avoid mosquito bites and eliminate mosquito breeding areas from properties,” Dr Rahaley said.

“Horse owners can provide some protection for their animals by using repellents, covering their horses, or keeping them indoors at times of high mosquito activity (dawn and dusk) and also minimising possible mosquito breeding areas.
  
“In an unusual disease-event last year, 43 ill horses were reported to Biosecurity SA and subsequent laboratory testing confirmed their infection with Kunjin or MVE virus.

“The first cases occurred mid-February with most cases seen late March, early April.”

Kunjin and MVE are spread by mosquitoes and can cause a rare but severe, neurological disease in horses and humans. 

“The main symptoms seen last year in horses with flavivirus infection included depression, inability to stand, ataxia (wobbliness, falling over or unusual gait) muscle tremors and extra sensitivity or reaction to touch,” Dr Rahaley said.

“While the majority of horses eventually recovered, unfortunately several required euthanasia. There is no known risk to humans from direct contact with infected horses however humans, like horses, can be directly infected from mosquito bites.

“If owners notice their horse appears unwell they should contact their veterinarian to arrange examination of the horse and possible laboratory testing.

“Biosecurity SA requires a property identification code (PIC) for the location of where the horse is normally kept, to carry out lab testing. A PIC has been mandatory for all livestock owners since January last year and costs $76 for two year’s registration.”

Further information about MVEV infection in humans and avoiding mosquito bites can be found on the Department of Health’s website: www.health.sa.gov.au/pehs/ygw/index.htm