EHV-1/EHM Outbreak: Essential Updates for Horse Owners After Texas Events
An outbreak of Equine Herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1), which includes severe cases of neurological disease termed equine herpes myeloencephalopathy (EHM), has recently emerged in Texas. Multiple equine veterinary clinics confirmed cases related to horses that attended major events in early November.
EHV-1 and EHM Overview
Equine Herpesvirus (EHV) encompasses a group of viruses that frequently affect horses. The three most problematic strains in the United States include:
- EHV-1: Associated with respiratory illness, abortion, neonatal death, and EHM.
- EHV-3: Causes coital exanthema, a venereal disease.
- EHV-4: Primarily a respiratory disease in younger horses, occasionally leading to abortion.
Notably, EHV does not infect humans.
What to Expect with EHV-1 and EHM
EHV-1 is particularly concerning due to its potential to induce:
- Fever
- Respiratory illnesses
- Neurological disorders, represented by EHM
EHM occurs when the virus impacts the blood vessels in the horse’s brain and spinal cord, which may lead to significant symptoms such as:
- Hind-end weakness
- Incoordination or unsteadiness
- Difficulty urinating
- Loss of tail tone
- Recumbency or inability to stand
Immediate veterinary intervention is critical, as EHM can be fatal.
Symptoms to Watch For
Horse owners should monitor for both mild and severe symptoms of EHV-1 and EHM, including:
- Fever
- Nasal discharge
- Coughing
- Depression or lethargy
- Weakness or stumbling
Some horses may carry and shed the virus without showing any outward symptoms.
Monitoring and Prevention Steps
Veterinarians suggest implementing rigorous health checks for horses exposed to the events in Waco. Key recommendations include:
- Conduct twice-daily temperature checks.
- Isolate horses exhibiting symptoms.
- Disinfect shared equipment thoroughly.
- Prevent nose-to-nose contact.
- Seek immediate veterinary advice if symptoms arise.
How EHV-1 Spreads
The virus spreads rapidly via various methods:
- Direct horse-to-horse contact.
- Aerosolized droplets from sneezing or coughing.
- Contaminated equipment such as buckets and grooming tools.
- Indirect human-mediated transmission via clothing or personal items.
- From pregnant mares to their foals.
Ongoing Monitoring and Advice
Organizations such as the WPRA and Elite Barrel Race are actively collaborating with the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC). They confirmed that no livestock were present on the event grounds three weeks before the WPRA Finals. Updates will be provided as TAHC performs ongoing testing.
What Horse Owners Should Do Now
Following these guidelines can aid in controlling the outbreak:
- Monitor temperatures twice daily.
- Isolate any symptomatic horse.
- Disinfect all shared equipment.
- Follow all TAHC and event-specific guidelines.
For the latest updates and official recommendations from TAHC, consult their website.
El-Balad will continue to provide information as the situation develops, keeping the health and safety of affected horse owners, competitors, and event organizers at the forefront.
