Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus is a
mosquito-borne
viral pathogen that causes
Venezuelan equine encephalitis or
encephalomyelitis (
VEE). VEE can affect all equine species, such as
horses,
donkeys, and
zebras. After infection, equines may suddenly die or show progressive
central nervous system disorders. Humans also can contract this disease. Healthy adults who become infected by the virus may experience
flu-like symptoms, such as high fevers and headaches. People with weakened immune systems and the young and the elderly can become severely ill or die from this disease.