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West Nile Virus & Animals

• Can animals other than birds be infected with West Nile virus?
• How do animals become infected with West Nile virus?
• What signs do infected animals have?
• Can people become infected by touching or being around animals infected with West Nile virus?
• Is there a treatment for animals infected with West Nile virus?
• Are there vaccines to protect animals from West Nile virus?
• Can people get West Nile virus from eating birds or animals that are infected with West Nile virus?
• Are wild game hunters at risk for West Nile virus infection?

For animal surveillance, also see Surveillance

Can animals other than birds be infected with West Nile virus?

Yes. Of all large land mammals, horses are particularly susceptible to West Nile virus. In the United States, there have also been small numbers of confirmed cases in cats, dogs, domestic rabbits and in certain types of squirrels, chipmunks, skunks and bats.

How do animals become infected with West Nile virus?

The source of infection for animals is the same as the source for most people who become infected - the bite of an infected mosquito. When there are reports of infected dead birds, or other animals in the area, it means there are likely infected mosquitoes too, and people should take action to reduce the risk of exposure to mosquitoes.

What signs do infected animals have?

Some may have no signs at all. Others may have a range of signs including fever, muscle spasms, weakness, lack of coordination, seizures and changes in temperament or personality.

For horses, signs of West Nile virus infection may include stumbling, weakness in hind limbs, inability to stand, paralysis of the limbs, listlessness and head shaking. In severe cases, horses may die or need to be euthanized.

Can people become infected by touching or being around animals infected with West Nile virus?

There have been no recorded cases of animals passing West Nile virus infection to other animals or to people. However, people who handle dead birds or animals should still follow standard health and safety practices. For example, cover any open wounds, and wear protective gloves and a mask.

These health and safety practices are also important for people who work with animals at risk for West Nile virus infection, such as horses and flocks of domestic birds. Health Canada has issued an Occupational Health Advisory for people whose jobs may put them at risk for West Nile virus infection.

Is there a treatment for animals infected with West Nile virus?

There is no specific treatment, but supportive therapies may reduce the severity and duration of clinical signs. People who suspect that horses, other animals or pets have become infected with West Nile virus should contact a veterinarian for information and advice.

Are there vaccines to protect animals from West Nile virus?

Currently there are two West Nile virus vaccines registered for use in horses in Canada. For the most recent information about West Nile virus and horses, visit the Canadian Food Inspection Agency Web site.

There is no vaccine at this time for other animals or pets.

Can people get West Nile virus from eating birds or animals that are infected with West Nile virus?

There is no evidence that people can get West Nile virus from eating infected birds or animals, however, it is important to follow standard health and safety practices when preparing food, to prevent the risk of food-borne illnesses. Meat from birds and animals should always be thoroughly cooked before it is eaten.

Are wild game hunters at risk for West Nile virus infection?

Hunters who spend a lot of time outdoors may be exposed to mosquitoes. This would put them at risk for infection if there is West Nile virus activity in the area. To reduce the risk of exposure to mosquitoes, hunters should wear protective clothing and use insect repellents that contain DEET or other approved ingredients. For more information on other approved insect repellants, visit the Pest Management Regulatory Agency Web site or call 1-800-267-6315 (toll-free in Canada).

Although there is no evidence that West Nile virus can pass from animals to people, hunters should use standard health and safety practices when they handle, clean, or cook wild game. For example, they should wear gloves to prevent direct contact with animal blood and should always cook game thoroughly before they eat it.