News

Eastern Equine Encephalitis reported in central Wisconsin

Wisconsin’s first 2025 case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis has been reported. 

The Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection says a five-month old colt contracted the disease in Marathon County. 

Both Eastern Equine Encephalitis and West Nile Virus are carried by mosquitoes and cannot pass directly between horses and humans. 

The ag department says EEE and West Nile Virus (WNV) are viruses that can cause inflammation of the brain (encephalitis). Symptoms of EEE in horses include altered mentation, impaired vision, head pressing, circling, inability to swallow, lack of coordination, seizures, and death. Affected horses are often found down and unable to rise. EEE is fatal in most horses showing signs of illness. Equine owners should contact their veterinarian if they observe any of these signs.

Horse owners are advised to keep up with their animal’s vaccinations and take steps to limit exposure to mosquitoes.

Wisconsin had ten cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis in 2024.