Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) was confirmed in two South Carolina horses in June, said Boyd Parr, DVM, state veterinarian and director of Clemson University’s Livestock Poultry and Animal Health programs.

A 10-year-old horse from Horry County and a 4-year-old horse from Marion County recently tested positive for the disease.

EEE is a serious, mosquito-borne illness in horses, which can also affect humans. EEE often is preventable by via vaccinations. Horse owners are urged to consult their veterinarian to ensure vaccinations against both EEE and West Nile virus are up-to-date, he said.

"These June diagnoses of EEE are a vivid reminder of the threat this and other mosquito-borne diseases are to horses in our state, especially following this year’s mild winter," said Parr. "Protecting horses through vaccination is very important this year

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