A horse in Baldwin County has tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis by the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries' veterinary diagnostic laboratory in Auburn.

EEE is a mosquito-transmitted disease that is found to be more severe than West Nile Virus. The CDC described West Nile as the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the continental United States and cases occur during mosquito season, which starts in the summer and continues through fall. The mortality rate in horses from West Nile is reported at around 30%, while the rate for EEE is almost 90%.

"Unfortunately, mosquito-borne viruses like EEE and WNV are prevalent in Alabama's warm and wet climate. Vaccinating is critical to protect horses and ourselves," Commissioner Rick Pate said in a news release. "I want to encourage horse owners to take precautionary measures and vaccinate their horses."

These viruses cause inflammation or swelling of the brain and spinal cord. General symptoms include central nervous system signs such as head pressing, convulsions, lack of response to facial stimulation, fever above 103 degrees, ataxia, paralysis, anorexia, depression and stupor. Other symptoms may include irregular gait, teeth grinding, circling and staggering. An infected horse may not exhibit all symptoms.

Dr. Tony Frazier, state veterinarian, recommended a biannual vaccination regimen against both diseases.

"We recommend vaccinating your horses every six months against both EEE and WNV," he said. "Horse owners are encouraged to contact their local veterinarian to schedule a vaccination."

While instances of humans contracting EEE remain rare, a few cases are reported annually in the United States. EEE cannot be transmitted directly from infected backyard poultry or horses to humans; transmission occurs through mosquito bites. The public is advised to minimize exposure to mosquitoes, especially during their peak activity times.

To mitigate EEE risk, the public is urged to follow protective measures, including the use of DEET insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing and pants, eliminating standing water sources and minimizing outdoor activities at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.