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Venezuelan equine encephalitis

disease

Quick Summary

Venezuelan equine encephalitis (VEE) is a severe viral disease affecting horses, mules, and sometimes humans and livestock, primarily found in South and Central America and extending to Mexico. It is transmitted by mosquitoes. VEE is one of several types of equine encephalitis, caused by strains of togavirus. The disease can be deadly, with high mortality rates in horses and a significant risk to humans. Symptoms can include fever, loss of coordination, paralysis, headache, drowsiness, and mental confusion, leading to it sometimes being called sleeping sickness. Vaccines have been developed to combat the disease.12

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