West Nile virus detected in Greenfield horse

By Jared Warner
Highland County Health Commissioner

A horse in the Greenfield area has tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV).  

While people cannot catch WNV from horses, this result shows that local mosquitoes are carrying the virus, which means people in our community are also at risk.

This is a good reminder for our community to take some extra steps to protect ourselves from mosquito bites. Most people who contract WNV will never know it, as about 80% of cases show no symptoms. Some people will have a fever, headache, or body aches.  In rare cases, especially in older adults and people with weakened immune symptoms, the virus can cause serious illness affecting the brain and nervous system.

Earlier this morning we sent out a message to our local healthcare providers with information on WNV, so they can be on the lookout for cases in our community. 

The best way people can protect themselves from WNV is to avoid getting bit by mosquitoes. Get rid of standing water. If containers can’t be drained, once a week, empty and scrub, turn over, or throw out items that hold water. Cover containers that might hold water so mosquitoes can’t lay eggs.

Buy larvicide or "dunks” to kill mosquito larvae in standing water that cannot be drained. Avoid being outdoors during peak mosquito times (dusk and dawn), especially in humid or wooded spaces. Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, and wear bug spray.

We are entering harvest season, deer archery season starts tomorrow, and our kids are out playing sports all over the county. It’s a great time to be outside. As you go out and enjoy the fall weather, take a minute and think about how you can protect yourself and your family from West Nile Virus.

If you own a horse, we encourage you to talk to your veterinarian. West Nile virus can be more serious in horses, but there is a vaccine available to help protect them.

And for those wondering, Ralph the horse is recovering well.

For more information about West Nile Virus and prevention tips, visit the Ohio Department of Health’s website at https://odh.ohio.gov/wnv or call 937-393-1941.