Vaccinate now for West Nile virus

April is an ideal month to vaccinate horses, alpacas and llamas for West Nile virus.

In 2003, 598 equine animals tested positive for WNV in Colorado. Larimer County ranked highest in the state, with 69 cases.

If an animal has been vaccinated previously, administer a booster now and again in August. This will give maximum protection during the high risk summer months.

The Fort Dodge Animal Health killed virus vaccine, West Nile Innovator, has proven to be 95 percent effective in protecting horses.

Fort Dodge now offers West Nile Innovator in combination with other vaccines such as Eastern and Western encephalitis and tetanus.

A new equine WNV vaccine, Recombitek, has entered the market this year. Produced by Merial, Recombitek is a recombinant DNA vaccine. Recombitek has been effective in trials but has not been widely tested in the field.

Recombitek will require annual boosters. Veterinarians are hoping the recombinant technology will provide longer-lasting immunity, so only one booster may be required each year.

Alpacas and llamas also became ill with West Nile virus in 2003. Many veterinarians are now recommending vaccination for these species.

The Fort Dodge vaccine appears to provide protection for camelid species. Recombitek has not been tested on alpacas or llamas.

Consult with a veterinarian to design an animal health plan.