First 2024 Case of EEE Confirmed in Van Buren County Horse

MDARD Confirms First Case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis for 2024 in Van Buren County Horse

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) has reported the first case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in a domestic animal for 2024. The case was found in an unvaccinated Standardbred filly from Van Buren County.

EEE is a serious viral disease transmitted by mosquito bites to both animals and humans. To protect yourself and your animals from mosquito-borne diseases, it’s essential to take preventive measures.

Precautionary Steps:

• Vaccinate horses against EEE, West Nile Virus (WNV), and other mosquito-borne diseases.
• Remove standing water around your property to eliminate mosquito breeding sites.
• Keep livestock in barns and pets indoors during peak mosquito activity (dusk to dawn).
• Use insect repellent approved for your animals.
• Contact a veterinarian if an animal shows signs of illness.

For personal protection:

• Use EPA-registered insect repellents.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors.
• Ensure window and door screens are intact.
• Empty standing water from containers around your home.

For more information on EEE and preventive measures, visit michigan.gov/EEE and michigan.gov/emergingdiseases.