Northern Nevada horses test positive for West Nile Virus

Six horses test positive for West Nile Virus

ELKO — Officials say six horses in Northern Nevada have tested positive for West Nile Virus.

The Elko Daily Free Press reports that the Nevada Department of Agriculture’s Animal Disease Lab says the Elko County horses tested positive for the virus within the past two weeks.

State Veterinarian Dr. J.J. Goicechea says horse owners should vaccinate their animals against the disease.

Goicechea says the virus is not usually seen in this part of the state but can be easily prevented through the vaccination.

The American Association of Equine Practitioners says the West Nile Virus is fatal in approximately 35 percent of cases.

Those that survive can be left with gait and behavioral abnormalities.