Mystery Horse Virus Spreads

abc.net.au has report that Biosecurity SA is investigating an unexplained neurological virus that has affected horses across parts of South Australia.

Fifteen cases have been reported across the Riverland, the upper South East and the Adelaide Hills.

It comes following similar findings in NSW and Victoria.

Chief veterinary officer Rob Rahaley says authorities haven't determined the exact cause, but can confirm the viruses are being spread by mosquitoes.

"The horses generally appear dull and depressed, they exhibit some weakness and shaking, and in the most severe cases, they will have hind limb shaking and may even fall over," he said.

"These horses appear to have been exposed to Ross River virus and some have been exposed to an unidentified virus which is in the group called 'Flavivirus', and that includes Kunjin and Murray Valley Encephalitis.

"You get sporadic events where horses can become infected with these arboviruses or insect-borne viruses, but we don't usually see clusters like this.

"Certainly to have occurrences in three states of Australia is quite unusual."

Biosecurity SA authorities are working with Australian Animal Health Laboratory at Geelong to get a definitive identification on the viruses and they're hoping find a solution within the next 14 days.

Story & Photo: www.abc.net.au