Equine West Nile Virus Cases

The Minnesota Board of Animal Health has confirmed the state’s first equine West Nile virus cases of the year, with at least seven horses testing positive across six counties, including Wabasha County.

State Veterinarian Dr. Brian Hoefs (hayfs) says the mosquito-borne virus typically emerges in late summer as bird migration shifts. “These mosquitoes tend to feed on birds,” Hoefs said.

“But as those birds head south, mosquitoes seek other blood sources — which is why we see cases in warm-blooded animals and people, too.”

Cases have been reported in Wabasha Kittson, Fillmore, Lincoln, Wadena, and Mille Lacs.

Hoefs noted nearly all infected horses were unvaccinated and urged owners to take preventive measures.

West Nile virus can cause severe neurological symptoms in horses and humans.

Officials recommend vaccination and mosquito control to reduce risk.