The horse became ill on August 17^th, showing signs of muscle tremors and an inability to rise without assistance, all possible signs of equine encephalitis. In addition, the horse had evidence of kidney failure. The horse was euthanized on August 20^th.

"It is unfortunate, but not surprising that this horse was infected with the West Nile Virus," said Commissioner Rudgers. "We are doing everything we can to help prevent the spread of these mosquitoes and the further infection of this deadly disease."

On Sunday, August 27, the New York City Department of Health coordinated efforts to spray Staten Island in an effort to control the mosquitoes that transmit West Nile virus. The Island is scheduled to be sprayed again on Wednesday, August 30, weather permitting.

"With the assistance of the New York City Department of Health, we will continue to fight the vectors of this disease," added Commissioner Rudgers, "and encourage everyone to take preventative measures for themselves and their horses."

Horses become infected with the West Nile Virus when infected mosquitoes bite them. Horses cannot spread West Nile to other horses, people or pets.

Not all horses that are infected with West Nile Virus become ill. Last year, samples from clinically normal horses that were stalemates of the affected horses showed that 29 percent of these horses had also been infected with West Nile, even though they were never ill.

Last year, 25 horses on Long Island were clinically ill with neurologic signs and had evidence of being infected with West Nile Virus. Nine of those horses died or were euthanized.

Precautions to decrease mosquito habitat can help minimize the chance of becoming infected with West Nile Virus, as well as horses in your area. You can decrease mosquito habitat near your home and stable areas by emptying standing water from cans, tires, swimming pool covers, clogged gutters or other materials, which can serve as mosquito breeding sites. Don’t let water troughs become breeding sites; keep water fresh in troughs at all times.