A FATAL mystery equine virus has caused panic among Casey horse owners. But local vets are urging people to remain calm.
The Australian Veterinary Association last week issued a warning to owners following the deaths of 15 horses from an unidentified neurological illness in NSW, Victoria and South Australia.
The cases are still under investigation, but AVA president Dr Barry Smyth said the deaths were believed to be the result of a mosquito-borne virus.
Symptoms included depression, mild colic and nervous signs including increased sensitivity to touch and sound, facial paralysis, difficulty chewing and exaggerated limb movement and weakness.
Dr Barry said blood tests on some of the infected horses had come back negative to the Hendra virus.
Cranbourne equine vet Graham Jeffrey said he had treated three cases of horses showing unusual neurological signs in the past month, with tests still being carried out.
“It is possible it is a mosquito-borne virus,” said Dr Jeffrey, adding that unusually high rainfall over summer had created an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes.
“There is no need for horse owners to worry because I think we might be on the tail end of it.”
Dr Jeffrey urged owners to immediately seek veterinary help if their horse showed any of the symptoms. “We will have to take blood tests, which take six to eight weeks to come back.” Source
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