Equine Eastern Encephalomyelitis Virus

Eastern Equine Encephalomyelitis Virus (EEV) is a member of the alphavirus genus and the togavirus family. It belongs to the ecological group of arboviruses, which are transmitted by blood-sucking insects such as mosquitoes and ticks. VEV causes epizootics, that is, epidemics among horses, and can be the causative agent of eastern equine encephalomyelitis in humans.

The VEV virus was first identified in the 1930s and has been a major concern among horse owners and health professionals ever since. It is distributed in various regions of the world, including North America, Europe and Asia. The main reservoirs of the virus are birds and mammals, including horses.

Transmission of the VEV virus occurs through blood-sucking insects that act as vectors. Mosquitoes and ticks become infected with the virus by feeding on infected animals and then pass it on to other animals, including horses. In some cases, epidemics may occur among horses, leading to significant losses in agriculture and the sports industry.

In humans, the VEV virus can cause eastern equine encephalomyelitis, a serious neurological disease. Transmission of the virus to humans also occurs through blood-sucking insects. Although most people infected with the VEV virus do not show symptoms, some people infected may experience fever, headache, dizziness and, in rare cases, seizures, paralysis and other serious complications.

The diagnosis of eastern equine encephalomyelitis is made on the basis of clinical manifestations, laboratory results and epidemiological data. Vaccination of horses is an effective measure to prevent epizootics and protect against the VEV virus. There is no specific vaccine for humans, and prevention relies on measures to prevent insect bites, such as using repellents and wearing protective clothing.

Eastern Equine Encephalomyelitis Virus continues to pose a significant threat to horses and humans. Ongoing monitoring programs, preventive measures and effective control methods are necessary to contain the spread of the virus and protect animal and human health. Further research and development of new methods for diagnosing, treating and preventing VEV are important directions in the fight against this virus and ensuring the safety of animals and public health.

Eastern Equine Encephalomyelitis Virus continues to pose a significant threat to horses and humans. Ongoing monitoring programs, preventive measures and effective control methods are necessary to contain the spread of the virus and protect animal and human health. Further research and development of new methods for diagnosing, treating and preventing VEV are important directions in the fight against this virus and ensuring the safety of animals and public health.

Eastern equine encephalitis virus (V. genus α-viruses. family togaviridae; ecological group arbovirms) is the causative agent of equine epizootics in various countries of Latvia. America, Wed. Asia and Transcaucasia. It can also cause encephalitis in humans (through contact with infected horses), manifested by progressive symptoms of encephalopolyomyelitis. There are no specific antiviral serums or vaccines; treatment is symptomatic.