N.C. Confirms its First Eastern Equine Encephalomyelitis Case of 2019
Because of the high mortality rate for horses and humans, EEE is regarded as one of the most serious mosquito-borne diseases in the United States. | Photo: Thinkstock
The North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (NCDACS) reports that a 4-year-old unvaccinated mare has been euthanized after contracting the state’s first Eastern equine encephalomyelitis (EEE) case of 2019.

“If your horses exhibit any symptoms of EEE, contact your veterinarian immediately,” said N.C. State Veterinarian Doug Meckes, DVM, in a statement. “It is imperative that horse owners keep their vaccines current. Talk to your veterinarian about vaccinating them as soon as possible against EEE and West Nile virus.”

For horses, mules, and donkeys with no prior vaccination history, the vaccination initially requires two shots given 30 days apart. Due to North Carolina’s prolonged mosquito season, Meckes recommends a booster shot every six months.

EEE is caused by viruses found in wild birds. Mosquitoes that feed on birds infected with EEE can transmit the disease to humans, horses, and other birds. Some birds can harbor the EEE viruses without becoming acutely ill, thereby serving as reservoirs for the disease. Horses don’t develop high enough levels of these viruses in their blood to be contagious to other animals or humans. Because of the high mortality rate for horses and humans, EEE is regarded as one of the most serious mosquito-borne diseases in the United States

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