Minnesota reports seven horse cases of West Nile virus, four fatal, due to lack of vaccinations.

In August, Minnesota has seen a rise in West Nile virus cases among horses, with seven confirmed cases and four deaths since August 11. All affected horses were either unvaccinated or had uncertain vaccination histories. The virus, primarily spread by mosquitoes and birds, can cause inflammation of the brain and spinal cord in horses. The Minnesota Board of Animal Health stresses the importance of annual vaccinations and reducing mosquito populations to prevent the virus.