The farm and ranch is a prime breeding ground for mosquitoes that carry West Nile Virus. Many standing water sources exist on the farm and ranch such as irrigation ditches and pipes, water troughs, irrigation ponds and irrigated fields.

Farm animals most susceptible to West Nile Virus include horses, other equine species and all avian species. Ratites (Ostrich and Emu) and other birds are at risk. An effective vaccine for equine West Nile Virus is available from your veterinarian. Chickens are not susceptible to West Nile Virus and do not transmit the disease.

The following precautions are encouraged to prevent West Nile Virus among livestock and poultry. Eliminate any unnecessary standing water on your property (tires, wheelbarrows, old buckets, etc.). Check around faucets and air conditioner units and repair any leaks and remove puddles. Make certain roof gutters drain properly and remove any standing water, especially from flat roofs. Clean out waterers, birdbaths, plant saucers, etc., at least weekly. Schedule pasture irrigation to minimize standing water. Keep swimming pools clean and free of water on covers. Keep ponds aerated and/or stocked with fish and consider stocking water tanks with fish that consume mosquito larvae.

Reduce your horses' exposure to mosquitoes.

• Stable horses inside during active mosquito feeding times (dawn/dusk).
• Utilize fans, barrier cloths, screens, flysheets, repellent sprays (permethrin, DEET), and insecticide misting systems.
• Talk to your veterinarian about vaccinating your horses against WNV.
• It may be advisable to vaccinate in the spring (March-May) in anticipation of WNV's appearance in mid summer to late fall. Talk to your veterinarian about the
• advantages of waiting until next spring versus vaccinating now.
• The vaccine requires two doses, three weeks apart, and should be completed at least two weeks prior to the onset of mosquito season.

For more information, check the UC Davis Equine WNV Site