Along with the usual seasonal suspects of summer sores and pigeon fever, summer and fall are also prime time for increases in disease caused by West Nile virus.

West Nile virus is found across the U.S. It is transmitted by mosquitoes and causes inflammation in the brain. Although many species are susceptible to infection, horses account for more than 95% of reported non-human cases. General treatment includes supportive care and anti-inflammatory therapy. Many horses make a full recovery in time, while others make a partial recovery with varying degrees of residual deficits. Depending on disease severity and availability of supportive care, the disease can be fatal in up to 33% of horses.

Read full news release from UC Davis Center for Equine Health