Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Clinical and pathological features of Nigerian equine encephalitis.
- Journal:
- The Veterinary record
- Year:
- 1996
- Authors:
- Adeyefa, C A et al.
- Affiliation:
- Department of Veterinary Medicine
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
In Nigeria, there have been thirteen cases of a serious disease affecting horses that has a low chance of spreading but a very high chance of causing death. The horses typically show signs like a high fever (over 104 degrees Fahrenheit), muscle spasms, trouble walking, faster breathing and heart rates, and may end up lying on their sides in a very weak state. The illness usually lasts between three to five days, although some horses have shown symptoms for as little as 12 to 30 hours. Tests done on the horses suggest that the disease is caused by a virus, likely related to a group known for causing encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). Unfortunately, the outcome for these horses is often poor due to the high mortality rate associated with this disease.
Abstract
Thirteen cases of a disease with a low morbidity and very high mortality in horses in Nigeria are described; the disease is characterised by fever (rectal temperature > or = 40 degrees C), generalised muscle spasms, ataxia, increased respiratory and heart rates and terminal lateral recumbency. The illness generally lasts three to five days but durations of 12 to 30 hours have been observed. Laboratory investigations, including histopathology and serology suggest a viral aetiology, possibly an alphavirus of the equine encephalitis group.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8730673/