West Nile virus is transmitted to horses via bites from infected mosquitoes. | Photo: Thinkstock

WNV transmission occurs when infected mosquitoes feed on animals, as well as humans, after having fed on infected birds. This is the first WNV case reported for this year in the state, according to a statement released by ADPH. No human infections have been reported, but the risk will remain through the active mosquito season, the release said.

“Positive cases in veterinary species, such as horses, can serve as a reminder that infected mosquitoes are circulating and people can be at risk,” said Alabama State Public Health Veterinarian Dee W. Jones, DVM. Jones stressed that people only get infected from mosquitoes and that horses do not pose an additional risk for human infection.