West Nile virus has been detected in a small number of horses across NSW, NSW DPI Biosecurity says. West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne virus which can affect horses, people and other animals. Only mosquitoes can spread the disease.
The early stages of disease may be mistaken for colic. Initially horses may appear depressed and reluctant to move but these signs are soon followed by neurological signs. Horse owners are encouraged to take extra precautions to reduce exposure to mosquitoes through rugging, insecticides and restricting grazing times when mosquitoes are most active.
Source: NSW DPI Biosecurity