GOSHEN, Ind. (AP) — Two northern Indiana counties will conduct aerial spraying to combat a rare mosquito-borne virus that's been found in several local horses.
Elkhart and LaGrange counties' commissioners authorized the spraying Monday in separate meetings. The decisions by the adjoining counties comes after eight horses in Elkhart County and two in LaGrange County tested positive for eastern equine encephalitis.
Human cases of the virus in adjacent Michigan counties factored in the Indiana counties' decisions to begin spraying.
The virus has been confirmed in humans or animals in at least 13 Michigan counties. Three people have died .
No Indiana residents have been diagnosed with the virus, which can cause brain infections.
LaGrange County officials haven't finalized their plans for spraying.
The Elkhart County Health Department is planning to spray for mosquitoes on Wednesday evening to curb the spread of Easter Equine Encephalitis.
An ultra-low volume aerial insecticide will be sprayed in areas in the county where Triple-E has been confirmed. Elkhart County has had eight confirmed cases of Triple-E in horses and one positive mosquito
pool.
Triple-E is very deadly in horses. Owners can get their animals vaccinated as a precaution.
The disease can also be deadly when contracted by humans. Three deaths have been reported this year in Michigan.
Aerial spraying can kill up to 90 percent of the mosquito population.
Health officials say people should still take precautions; like wearing insect repellent, long sleeves and pants, and staying inside at night when mosquitoes are most active.
Residents should cover fish ponds and bee hives on Wednesday evening.
All other outdoor spaces should not be harmed by the spray.
