Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV) is a virus that primarily affects horses but can also infect humans. It is transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes, particularly in areas of Central and South America. The virus can cause inflammation of the brain, leading to symptoms such as fever, headache, and in severe cases, neurological complications. VEEV is part of the Togaviridae family and is closely related to other viruses like Eastern equine encephalitis virus and Western equine encephalitis virus. Vaccines are available for horses, but there is no specific treatment for infected humans, making prevention through mosquito control essential.