By NewsDesk @infectiousdiseasenews
In February, Colorado state health officials reported a mule residing in Eagle County tested positive for bat variant rabies. This was the first case of rabies in an equine in Colorado since 2013.
Last week, The Colorado Departments of Agriculture and Public Health and Environment, in collaboration with Tri-County Health Department, confirmed that a miniature horse in Adams county has tested positive for rabies.
This is the second case of rabies in domestic livestock (equid) in Colorado this year.
Shortly after the miniature horse was euthanized, a skunk acting strangely was found and euthanized on the premises and also tested positive.
Rabies can spread from wild animals such as bats, skunks, raccoons and foxes to other mammals, including domestic pets and livestock. One of the greatest risks of exposure to rabies virus for people is through contact with rabid domestic pets or livestock.
“This incident highlights the need for two important things – reporting suspect rabies cases and up-to-date vaccinations. Prompt reporting of suspect cases allows for timely diagnosis and appropriate follow-up measures to protect animal and human health,” said State Veterinarian Dr. Maggie Baldwin. “Vaccinating pets and livestock is the single best method to prevent the disease which is fatal in nearly 100% of the cases.”
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