Equine encephalitis confirmed in South Carolina

South Carolina’s state veterinarian announced today that two cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis have been confirmed in the state. A horse that died in Darlington County and a miniature donkey that died in Horry County recently tested positive for the disease. The fatal form of encephalitis is a mosquito-borne illness in horses that can also affect humans. Vaccination can prevent the disease in horses. The symptoms include stumbling, circling, head pressing, depression or apprehension, weakness of legs, partial paralysis, the inability to stand, muscle twitching or death. State veterinarian Boyd Parr says horse owners should check with their veterinarian to be sure their horses’ vaccinations are up to date.