West Nile Virus will be an ongoing concern in the Midwest for at least the next mosquito season and probably beyond.

Statistical evidence collected from Midwest veterinarians and human-health officials show that West Nile Virus (WNV) activity is cause for common-sense prevention measures.

The Web site of the Missouri Department of Agriculture (MDA) reports that 2002 brought Missouri 169 human cases of WNV in 29 counties. Officials identified 277 WNV positive birds from 82 counties and had 914 confirmed WNV positive horses from 103 counties. Contacts at MDA also reported that five dogs and one sheep were confirmed positive. Other states in the MFA trade territory posted similar statistics. While desert states like Arizona and Nevada have yet to detect the virus, according to a report from the Centers for Disease Control, a human case in Los Angeles County, Calif. and an infected horse in Island County, Wash., indicate a complete transcontinental movement of WNV in just 3 years.

Year-end, 2002 reports show that severity of cases was extremely variable. In Missouri, records show there were five human deaths linked to WNV infection. For horses, the information is incomplete. Since WNV is not a reportable and quarantinable disease, clinical case and death reporting is very incomplete across the state. Past studies and experience with WNV elsewhere support a pretty consistent estimate of 32-33 percent mortality among clinically affected horses. For a state with a horse population that trails only California and Texas, this is a real concern.

There are several pieces of good news though:

• People are much more aware of the need for mosquito control and are taking better measures to control populations and decrease exposure.
• Infected and recovered horses will have strong, natural immunity for about 2 years according to veterinary specialists. (Though that doesn't negate the benefit of booster vaccinations!)
• The conditionally licensed vaccine utilized this past season gave good results when given properly. This vaccine is moving much closer to full license approval with submission of proof of its effectiveness. Other companies are working to make additional vaccines available.
• People have become more acutely aware of the need to maintain good equine health, supported by sound nutrition, exercise and parasite control in their horses. This keeps the immune system in top condition, ready to fight off WNV or whatever else may come along.

The bottom line is that everyone needs to be aware of the presence of WNV; that it is significant as a disease causing agent in multiple species. Take preventive steps this spring to have a healthy, active, outdoor life in the great Midwest weather.

Keeping our horses healthy offers a greater chance of warding off the West Nile Virus.

Building your horse's immune systems
To help offset the West Nile Virus, build up your horse's immune systems. Try these suggestions to increase immune response.

1. Keep your horse in peak condition. Feed a product that is suited for the animal's level of discipline and activity. MFA offers a complete line of horse feed to accommodate your horse needs.
2. Vaccinate and de-worm according to schedule. Keep records accurate and timely.
3. Clean stock tanks weekly. Increase water intake. Do this by offering a free choice mineral and plenty of fresh, clean water.
4. Lower your horse's stress levels. Only haul if necessary; feed at regular times; keep your riding times consistent and reconsider stressful situations.
5. Observe your horse for any signs of weakness, staggering or wobbling. If you notice something different, put the animal in a stall. Be careful that the horse does not fall over on you. The horse can be very uncoordinated--falling unpredictably. Putting the horse in a stall will allow you to medicate, observe and prevent further injury.