2 horses in Conn. found with West Nile virus

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — Connecticut agriculture officials have reported the year's first domestic animal cases of West Nile virus.

The Department of Agriculture said Tuesday that a 4-year-old horse from Southbury showed symptoms of lethargy and stumbling on its front feet in late August. The horse developed a fever and became progressively more depressed and uncoordinated.

A blood sample was found positive for the virus. The horse was treated and is recovering.

A 31-year-old horse from South Windsor was observed, also in late August, unable to stand, and unresponsive. The horse's condition continued to deteriorate and it was euthanized.

Mary Jane Lis, state veterinarian for the Connecticut Department of Agriculture, says horse owners should make sure vaccinations are current and that their horses are protected in the mosquito season.