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81.
West Nile Virus
affects release of stallions
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26/08/2002 |
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Reports
that a Canadian pacing stallion in Sydney quarantine, is being tested for the
West Nile Virus (WNV), has sent shudders through the equine world. It has also
had an immediate effect on the Australian breeding industry with no stallion
that is currently in quarantine being released.
One such example is Zafonic, one of the new shuttle stallions for Arrowfield
Stud. Zafonic was due to be released but a launch set down for tomorrow has been
cancelled until further notice.
West Nile virus is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito, and can infect
people, horses and many types of birds.
There is apparently no evidence to suggest that WNV can be spread from person to
person or from animal to person, but a small percentage of people have
contracted encephalitis, a potentially fatal infection of the brain.
The virus however, which is carried by the mosquito, is a serious threat to
horses. Over the past two years, in the USA more than 600 horses from 20 states
were infected with the virus; and many died as a result.
A vaccine has been manufactured by the Fort Dodge Laboratories in New Jersey USA
and the overall reports from their veterinary community, is that the vaccine is
a safe and effective one.
Infected horses may display one of several symptoms including lack of
co-ordination and stumbling; weakness of the hind limbs; falling down, inability
to rise; muscle twitching grinding teeth; colicky appearance; hypersensitivity
excessive sweating; disorientation; convulsions and paralysis.
Prompt veterinary attention is needed to ensure a horse is given every chance to
survive.
By: Jo Adams
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