Two horses in Delaware have been euthanized after contracting West Nile virus.

The virus is carried by mosquitoes.

The Delaware Department of Agriculture recommends vaccinations for horses and ways to try to prevent mosquito bites.

Two horses have been euthanized after the first cases of West Nile virus in horses this year were confirmed in Delaware.

The Office of the State Veterinarian in the Delaware Department of Agriculture announced the Kent County cases on Sept. 9.

A 4-year-old Standardbred gelding and a 7-year-old Standardbred mare were euthanized, said Michael Lewis, chief of community relations for the department.

The onset of symptoms in these cases occurred between Aug. 31 and Sept. 1.

West Nile virus is transmitted by mosquito bites, generally in summer and fall, with a

See Full Page