What are the signs of EEE and WEE and how can infected horses be treated?
EEE and WEE affect horses in very similar ways to other diseases of the nervous system, with signs including:9,12 Fever for 24 to 48 hours (WEE often does not progress beyond fever) • Depression • Hypersensitivity to stimuli • Involuntary muscle movements • Impaired vision • Aimless wandering or circling • Paralysis of the throat and tongue There are no specific treatments for horses infected with EEE or WEE.9 Your veterinarian may recommend providing supportive care, including fluids and anti-inflammatory therapy.9 Even in horses that recover from either EEE or WEE, many can have permanent brain damage.12
