Kansas Responds to Equine Infectious Anemia and West Nile Virus Cases
The Kansas Department of Agriculture’s Division of Animal Health (KDA) is actively managing two separate equine disease cases confirmed in July: one involving Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA) in Sedgwick County and another involving West Nile virus (WNV) in Harper County.
Equine Infectious Anemia Case in Sedgwick County
In mid-July, the National Veterinary Services Laboratory reported a confirmed case of Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA) in a horse in Sedgwick County. EIA is a bloodborne viral disease affecting horses, mules, and donkeys. While it does not affect humans, it poses serious health risks to equine populations and is considered untreatable.
Following the confirmation, KDA implemented its disease response protocol. The affected facility and all horses on the premises were placed under quarantine. Preliminary results from follow-up testing show that additional horses have also tested positive. The symptomatic horse that initially tested positive died from complications associated with the disease.
To contain the outbreak, a surveillance zone within a quarter-mile of the affected premises was established. Officials are working with local veterinarians and horse owners to identify and test any equines that may have had contact with infected animals.
Though many infected horses may appear healthy, they remain lifelong carriers and potential sources of transmission. EIA is spread primarily through biting flies, contaminated medical instruments, and blood transfusions. Typical symptoms include fever, anemia, and swelling.
In response to concerns about disease control, Kansas recently updated its regulations to require a negative Coggins test (a standard EIA test) within the previous 12 months for horses being sold or shown, in addition to the existing requirements for horses entering the state.
West Nile Virus Detected in Harper County Horse
Separately, KDA confirmed a case of West Nile virus (WNV) in a horse located in Harper County. WNV is a mosquito-borne virus that affects humans, birds, horses, and other species. It is not contagious between horses or from horses to humans.
The infected horse was not up to date on its vaccinations but is reportedly responding well to treatment. WNV can cause a range of symptoms in horses, from mild fever and depression to severe neurologic signs, including incoordination and muscle weakness. The disease can be fatal in some cases.
Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent WNV. Horse owners are strongly encouraged to consult their veterinarians about annual vaccination schedules. Additionally, mosquito control measures—such as eliminating standing water and using repellents—play an important role in prevention.
West Nile virus is a reportable disease in Kansas, requiring confirmed cases to be reported to the Division of Animal Health.
Public Health and Prevention
Both incidents underscore the importance of routine disease surveillance, timely vaccinations, and biosecurity practices. While neither disease poses a direct threat to human health from equine contact, both can significantly impact animal health and the broader equine industry.
For more information, or to report a suspected case, contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture Division of Animal Health.
