• Technical contacts: Rick Partipilo, Linn Co. Health Department, 541-976-3821
• Sally Cole, DVM, Scio Animal Hospital, 503-394-2035
• Emilio DeBess, D.V.M., Oregon Dept. of Human Services, 971-673-1111

“It is unusual for a dog to be affected with WNV,” said Emilio DeBess “Nationwide, less than 50 dogs confirmed to have had WNV since 1999."

Dr Cole said the dog initially presented with back leg pain and later started circling to the right and was unable to stand and had seizures. Since then, the dog has recovered and has partial loss of eyesight.

“There is no WNV vaccine for dogs,” said DeBess. “Pet owners who are concerned about protecting their dogs should only use approved mosquito repellant products.”

This is another reminder for Oregonians to get in the habit of protecting themselves from mosquito bites. Partipilo advises five key prevention steps:

· Eliminate all sources of standing water that can support mosquito breeding; for example, leaf-clogged gutters, birdbaths and old tires.

· Avoid mosquito-infested areas at dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.

· Wear long pants, long-sleeve shirts and other protective clothing when you are outdoors.

· Wear insect repellant, preferably one that contains DEET. Follow label directions when using any repellant.

· Make sure that doors and windows have tight-fitting screens. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes.

Last year, Oregon recorded West Nile virus infections in 73 people, 25 birds and 35 horses. To date for 2007, two people have been infected, as well as 9 sentinel chickens, 5 horses and 14 birds.