Diagnosis; West Nile

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WASHINGTON – According to a report by the Associated Press, a Yakima, Washington dog has been diagnosed with West Nile virus.

West Nile is spread mostly through mosquitoes, but in rare cases has been transmitted via blood transfusion. It is likely this dog was bitten by a mosquito.

The Yakima Health District euthanized the dog on October 8th, since there are no vaccinations for the disease.

The 9 year-old male dog displayed symptoms beginning October 3rd, authorities say. Tests from two different labs later confirmed the diagnosis; West Nile.

Officials say the virus is difficult to diagnose in canines – but both Oregon and Idaho have reported at least one case of the virus this year.

The Yakima Health District has not issued any further warnings for animal owners since the mosquito season has ended.

For more on West Nile, go to cdc.gov/westnile.

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