How do you give a horse a West Nile vaccine?
West Nile Virus: Foals of vaccinated mares: Administer a primary 3-dose series beginning at 4-6 months of age with a 4- to 6- week interval between the first and second dose. The third dose should be administered at 10 to 12 months of age prior to the onset of the next mosquito season.
When should a West Nile vaccine be given to horses?
Because of the high mortality associated with West Nile virus, it is recommended that foals born in areas where there is a high risk of exposure to West Nile virus should receive an initial series of three (3) doses of vaccine against West Nile beginning at 3 months of age and at 4- to 6- week intervals.
How are horse vaccines administered?
Common routes used are intramuscular (in the muscle), intranasal (in the nostril), and subcutaneous (SQ). The most common route is IM. There are several sites with quality muscle mass that are safe for vaccinations. Most vaccine type injections are given with a 20 gauge 1 to 1 ½ inch sterile needle and sterile syringe.
Can horses survive West Nile virus?
The case fatality rate for horses exhibiting clinical signs of WNV infection is approximately 33%. Data have supported that 40% of horses that survive the acute illness caused by WNV still exhibit residual effects, such as gait and behavioral abnormalities, 6-months post-diagnosis.
What is the treatment for West Nile virus?
No vaccine or specific medicines are available for West Nile virus infection. In severe cases, patients often need to be hospitalized to receive supportive treatment, such as intravenous fluids, pain medication, and nursing care.
What is the 5 way shot for horses?
A “5-way” (EEE/WEE, Tetanus, Influenza, and Rhino) vaccine is administered to 4-H, exhibition, and breeding or boarding barn horses. Depending on the risk, these vaccines may be repeated in 6-month intervals. For the 4-H clients, we also vaccinate annually for Rabies virus.
Can horses survive West Nile?
Where do you give a horse an IM injection?
To locate the appropriate injection area, put the heel of your hand on the base of the horse’s neck where it joins the shoulder, about midway between the crest and the bottom of the neck. The area covered by your palm is the injection site.
Is there a vaccination for West Nile Virus in horses?
A. Yes, there are two intramuscular vaccines available for horses. The original vaccine and the most common is West Nile-INNOVATORTM vaccine, manufactured by Fort Dodge Animal Health, a division of Wyeth.
Can a horse get West Nile if vaccinated?
Horses vaccinated against other viral diseases such as Eastern, Western, and Venezuelan equine encephalitis and Equine herpesvirus are not protected against infection with West Nile Virus.
Can a horse get West Nile from a mosquito?
Neither horses nor humans circulate enough virus in their blood when they acquire the disease to pass the virus back to mosquitoes. West Nile virus cannot be spread directly from horse to horse or from horse to human. A mosquito that has previously fed on an infected bird is required in all cases.
Is the West Nile virus contagious to humans?
WNV is not contagious and can’t pass between horses or humans. Mosquitoes pass WNV from infected birds to horses. Signs of WNV depend on the severity of the case. If your horse experiences any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.
When to give a WNV shot to a horse?
The vaccine shots are of no value if they aren’t given prior to exposure to the disease. If the horse develops WNV it is too late for the shot. The vaccines require two doses, administered three to six weeks apart, and full protection doesn’t develop until four to six weeks after the second dose. Sometimes a third does is recommended.
How long does it take for a horse to show signs of West Nile virus?
Fever has occurred in less than one fourth of all confirmed equine cases. Each horse may exhibit a combination of symptoms or not exhibit any symptoms. Once a horse has been bitten, it may take only 5 to 15 days for signs of West Nile virus to appear.