More EHV-1 Cases Appear Around the Nation

Lindsey Kahn follows up on last week’s post about EHV-1, where it has been reported, and what that means for horse owners.

From Lindsey:

Last week, I reported on the recent EHV-1 outbreak that has affected horses in the Upper Midwest, and listed some important resources about the virus. According to Minnesota’s Stillwater Equine Veterinary Clinic, there have been a total of seven EHV-1 positive horses in Minnesota, two cases in Wisconsin, and one case in Iowa as of April 3, 2014. Of these ten cases, three of the horses were euthanized due to neurological symptoms of the virus. Last month, an EHV-1 outbreak in Oregon resulted in five horses affected by the virus, though quick action and quarantine ensured that this instance was an isolated incident. Additionally, a single case appeared in Colorado; a horse in Larimer County tested positive for the virus, leading to investigation and quarantine of that horse’s stable.

In light of these recent developments, veterinarians and other equine professionals are urging everyone to practice strict biosecurity, such as disinfecting hands and clothes and avoiding cross-contamination of tack and equipment between barns. Some shows, clinics, sales, and other events have been postponed or canceled in an attempt to stop the virus’ spread.

The Minnesota Board of Animal Health reports, “The University of Minnesota Center for Animal Health and Food Safety recommends that horses with a fever and symptoms of contagious respiratory infection should be kept at home and not taken to shows, clinics or public trail rides. Horse owners should also be aware that transportation of horses to competitions, shows and clinics may increase the risk of exposure to infectious organisms.”

For more information regarding EHV-1, please see the following links:

The Facts on EHV-1 (America’s Horse Daily)

UC Davis Center for Equine Health – Equine Herpesvirus

University of Minnesota Equine Extension

University of Kentucky Gluck Equine Research Center

EHV-1 Precautions (Eventing Nation)

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