Unlike other bodily cells, neurons do not undergo cell division, meaning that their health is critical.
When WNV infects the central nervous system, it triggers the response of a type of glial cell known as a microglial cell. Microglial cells are the primary component of the central nervous system’s immune response. These cells phagocytize, or swallow, and remove the pathogen-damaged nerve cells. They also activate proinflammatory cytokines which can unintentionally cause harm to healthy cells.1 Some symptoms, especially motor impairment, may persist even after the infection clears due to this damage of the nervous system.
Vaccination is the primary means of West Nile Virus prevention in horses. There are currently 4 USDA licensed vaccines. The first time a horse receives the vaccine, it receives one dose followed by another dose 3-6 weeks later. This series should be completed 4 weeks prior to mosquito season for best results. An annual booster should also be administered.2 …show more content…
West Nile virus (WNV), named for its discovery in the West Nile District of Uganda, is a mosquito-borne pathogen commonly found in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.2 Ever since its detection in the United States in 1999, WNV has been a health threat to the nation’s horse population. Currently, no treatment for the virus exists.
After the initial infection, horses may begin exhibiting symptoms anywhere from 3-15 days. However, only about 10-39 % of infected horses experience symptoms.2 West Nile Virus targets the central nervous system leading
When WNV infects the central nervous system, it triggers the response of a type of glial cell known as a microglial cell. Microglial cells are the primary component of the central nervous system’s immune response. These cells phagocytize, or swallow, and remove the pathogen-damaged nerve cells. They also activate proinflammatory cytokines which can unintentionally cause harm to healthy cells.1 Some symptoms, especially motor impairment, may persist even after the infection clears due to this damage of the nervous system.
Vaccination is the primary means of West Nile Virus prevention in horses. There are currently 4 USDA licensed vaccines. The first time a horse receives the vaccine, it receives one dose followed by another dose 3-6 weeks later. This series should be completed 4 weeks prior to mosquito season for best results. An annual booster should also be administered.2 …show more content…
West Nile virus (WNV), named for its discovery in the West Nile District of Uganda, is a mosquito-borne pathogen commonly found in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.2 Ever since its detection in the United States in 1999, WNV has been a health threat to the nation’s horse population. Currently, no treatment for the virus exists.
After the initial infection, horses may begin exhibiting symptoms anywhere from 3-15 days. However, only about 10-39 % of infected horses experience symptoms.2 West Nile Virus targets the central nervous system leading