REYNOLDSBURG, Ohio (AP) — The Ohio Department of Agriculture says two cases of potentially fatal West Nile Virus have been confirmed among horses in the state.
The department said one horse is in Stark County. The other’s location wasn’t identified immediately.
Officials urge horse owners to vaccinations and boosters up to date. The mosquito-transmitted disease brings flulike symptoms with a mortality rate of 30-40 % in horses.
There have also been three cases this year of Eastern equine encephalitis, also mosquito-transmitted.
Authorities urge people take action to eliminate mosquito breeding areas. Recommendations include removing stagnant water and keeping animals inside in early morning and evening.
Humans should use repellant and protective clothing as a precaution.