On the same day one state agency announced that a Tiverton horse had been euthanized after contracting Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), another agency issued tips for people to avoid mosquito bites to avoid EEE and West Nile virus.

The state Department of Environmental Management said on Friday that a two-year-old horse that had not been vaccinated against EEE developed neurological symptoms of the disease and became comatose. Eighteen hours later, the state veterinarian euthanized the animal, which had tested negative for rabies.

Symptoms of EEE in horses include depression, stumbling, lack of coordination, hind limb weakness, partial paralysis and muscle twitching. Late summer and early fall are high-risk seasons for mosquitoes to spread EEE and West Nile to horses. The DEM advises that owners who suspect their horses may have EEE should promptly contact a veterinarian.

The state recommends that owners spray their horses with repellent and stable their animals at dawn and dusk. Freestanding water should be removed from stable areas to eliminate potential mosquito breeding areas.

Meanwhile, the Department of Health is reminding people to take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses. Mosquitoes in Rhode Island have tested positive this season for West Nile and EEE.

“This year’s wet weather has helped to create more ideal situations for mosquito breeding in Rhode Island and in other New England states,” said Robert S. Crausman, chief of the Health Department’s Center for Epidemiology and Infectious Diseases.

To prevent mosquito bites, use bug spray with less than 30 percent DEET (but not on infants), minimize outside activities at sunrise and sundown, wear long-sleeve shirts and pants, put mosquito netting over playpens and baby carriages and use window and door screens.

To eliminate mosquito breeding grounds, get rid of anything that collects water, change water in birdbaths at least twice a week, and clean gutters so they drain properly.

rsalit@projo.com