The North Central District Health Department reported a horse in Cherry County has tested positive for West Nile Virus. Additional details on the symptoms or status of the horse are not currently available. Typically, horses with West Nile Virus display symptoms of depression, lack of appetite, change in behavior and mood, fever, muscle spasms and incoordination. Horse owners should talk to a veterinarian about vaccinating horses annually for West Nile Virus.

This virus starts in birds that serve as the host. Mosquitoes feed on infected birds and then transmit the virus to humans and horses.

A mosquito pool in Holt County also tested positive for West Nile Virus earlier this month. This is a high-risk time of year for West Nile Virus transmission. It is likely the virus is currently circulating in all counties of the North Central District Health Department region.

Residents should take precautions to protect themselves from mosquitoes. Limit time spent outdoors at dusk and down when mosquitoes are most active. Wear long sleeve shirts and pants if outdoors at dusk or dawn. Apply an EPA-approved mosquito repellant (DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535. Get rid of standing water that mosquitoes may breed in.

A mosquito dashboard with more information is maintained at http://www.ncdhd.ne.gov