For a WNV-free horse

As summer approaches, Butte County horse owners are urged to get their equines vaccinated for West Nile virus.

The mosquito-borne virus is often deadly for horses, and there are several safe, effective vaccination options for horse owners in preparation for mosquito season, according to a Butte County Public Health press release. Owners should discuss vaccination options with their veterinarian, and all previously vaccinated horses need a booster shot each spring prior to mosquito season.

Symptoms can include stumbling; drooping head; drooping lips, lip smacking and grinding teeth; general weakness; muscle twitching and tremors; hypersensitivity to touch or sound; fever, inability to rise; convulsions; and coma.

Last year, 22 horses in California were confirmed positive for WNV, eight of which died either from the virus or euthanasia. Go to www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/cder/wnv.html for more info on WNV.