What is equine encephalitis?

Answer 1

also known as (VEE,)venezuelan equine encephalitis virus, is a disease that effects humans and equines. It is also a biological weapon. This disease is arboviral which means it is maintained in nature and is transmitted by anthropods (i.e. mosquito's) Symptoms include a onset of flu-like symptoms such as headache, chills, fever, pain behind the eyes, nausea and vomiting. Lymphadenopathy is also present in some cases. In severe cases, the central nervous system is affected causing encephalitis with disorientation, seizures, paralysis and eventually coma. When used as a bio-terrorism agent, VEE would most likely be transmitted by aerolization.

Treatment for VEE is supportive only. Analgesics are administered for generalized aches and for headaches. According to research, supportive therapy such as mechanical ventilation, IV fluids, and antibiotics may be helpful to prevent secondary infections. See related links.

Answer 2

Equine encephalitis is used to describe a number of diseases that affect horses and cause neurological symptoms. These may be caused by viruses, such as Easter Equine Encephalitis, Western Equine Encephalitis, Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis or even West Nile Virus which doesn't just affect equines but does cause encephalitis in equines. These diseases may also be caused "encephalomyelitis". When caused by a virus, these diseases are transmitted via insect bite (commonly mosquitos) and cause inflammation and tissue damage to the central nervous system. Other types of equine encephalitis or encephalomyelitis may be caused by parasites such as Sarcocystis neurona with causes Equine Protozoal Encephalomyelitis in horses.

Answer 3

Yes, horses are susceptable to three types of encephalitis (also known as Sleeping Sickness): Eastern, Western and Venezualan. Horses should be vaccinated for all three.