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Skip Navigation LinksAll Horse Topics > Infectious Diseases > Equine Herpesvirus (EHV)


Articles ( * = TheHorse.com members only )Date Posted
New Treatment for Equine Herpesvirus Tested in Horses
A novel experimental treatment for equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) called RNA interference shows promise, but more research is needed before this technology becomes commercially available. EHV-1 evades the horse's immune system during infection and can lie dormant in the horse's body. For these reasons, making an effective vaccine against ... Read full story
 11/21/2009
Researchers Track EHV-5 Incidence, Effects in Europe
Equine herpesvirus-5, which had previously been reported in horses in the United States, is also present in the European horse population, researchers recently reported. They found the virus in horses without any signs of disease (known as subclinical infection) and those with various respiratory signs or fatigue. "EHV-5 is more or less considered ... Read full story
 11/6/2009
Model for Studying EHV-1 Neurologic Disease Successfully Established   *
In contrast to a recently published study on EHV-1, the late George Allen, PhD, a University of Kentucky Gluck Equine Research Center scientist, described a model to study equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) and myeloencephalopathy and identified major risk factors critical to experimental reproduction of this syndrome. In his article, published in December ... Read full story
 10/21/2009
Equine Disease Report: Second Quarter 2009  *
The International Collating Centre, Newmarket, England, and other sources reported the following disease outbreaks. Contagious equine metritis (CEM) was recorded in France, the United States, and the United Kingdom (UK). One case of Taylorella equigenitalis infection was confirmed in France. The number of CEM-carrier animals detected in the USA since ... Read full story
 10/1/2009
Study: Single EHV-1 Mutation Can Cause Lethal Neurologic Disease   *
A single mutation in the genome of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) was "necessary and sufficient" to cause neurologic disease in horses in a new study, reported Cornell University researchers. All strains of EHV-1 can cause respiratory disease and abortion, but only a subset of EHV-1 strains can cause neurologic disease said Nikolaus Osterrieder, DVM, ... Read full story
 9/30/2009
EHV-1 Neurologic Disease a Challenge for Researchers   *
Despite the remarkable advances in understanding neurologic disease in horses, including the identification of the single genetic mutation that gives rise to the neuropathogenic form of equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1), virologists continue to experience frustrations when it comes to studying EHV-1 in the experimental setting. EHV-1 causes abortion, ... Read full story
 9/25/2009
Study: Neurologic Strain of Equine Herpesvirus-1 Increasing   *
The number of equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) infections caused by the neuropathogenic form of the virus has been steadily increasing over the past 51 years, report researchers from the University of Kentucky. Clinical observations suggest that neuropathogenic strains of EHV-1 (i.e., strains of EHV-1 with a single mutation in the gene that encodes ... Read full story
 9/23/2009
Study: Neurologic Signs Not Limited to One EHV-1 Strain  *
Anytime a horse develops fever, malaise, and a stumbling gait or inability to stand, owners should contact a veterinarian immediately--they might be dealing with equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). In addition, the animal should be quarantined to prevent transmitting the virus to other horses through nasal secretions, said Gillian A. Perkins, DVM, Dipl. ... Read full story
 9/11/2009
Secondhand Tack and Disease
Watch out for contagious consignments; don�t bring a disease home to your horses when buying used tack or even sharing equipment with your friends. Buying used tack can be a boon for your pocketbook, giving you a chance to own that perfect saddle or bridle for a lot less than it would cost new. The downside is that secondhand equipment can sometimes ... Read full story
 9/1/2009
EHV-1 Quarantine Lifted at Pennsylvania Stable  *
A quarantine at Rolling Hills Ranch stable in Bridgeville, Allegheny County, Pa., has been lifted after samples collected from all 116 horses there tested negative for the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus-1, or EHV-1, said Agriculture Secretary Dennis Wolff . The quarantine was established on July 20 when at least three horses tested positive ... Read full story
 8/31/2009
Deadly Neurologic Equine Herpesvirus-1 Outbreak in France  *
Four horses have been euthanized and a fifth horse is recumbent following an outbreak of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) in a boarding stable in northern France, according to the treating veterinarian. Quarantine has been established and will continue for at least three more weeks. Jeroen Lissens, DVM, said seven of the 63 horses at the stable have tested ... Read full story
 8/2/2009
EHV-1 Quarantine at Pennsylvania Stable  *
Horses at Rolling Hills Ranch stable in Bridgeville, Allegheny County, Pa., have been quarantined after at least three horses tested positive for the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus-1, or EHV-1, Agriculture Secretary Dennis Wolff said today. "Equine herpesvirus causes upper respiratory infection and can cause severe neurological disease in ... Read full story
 7/29/2009
Neurologic EHV-1 Reported in Pennsylvania  *
Four horses stabled in Allegheny County, Pa., have been euthanized after developing neurologic signs consistent with equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1), according to a statement circulated by the Animal Health Emergency Management and Information Network on behalf of the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Bureau of Animal Health and Diagnostic Services. ... Read full story
 7/24/2009
Equine Herpesvirus Myeloencephalopathy Resources Available   *
A 74-page report on equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM), for which equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) has been identified as a causative agent, was released by the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services, Centers for Epidemiology and Animal Health in July 2008. The report, "Equine Herpesvirus Myeloencephalopathy: Mitigation Experiences, ... Read full story
 7/6/2009
Readers Share Top Two Vaccination Choices  *
Approximately 1,270 readers of TheHorse.com responded to a poll asking, "Which two vaccinations do you feel are most important?" Results were as follows: West Nile virus (WNV) 58.27% (740) Rabies 52.83% (671) Sleeping sickness (EE, WEE, VEE) 49.61% (630) Influenza 24.88% (316) Equine herpes virus (EHV) 8.35% (106) Potomac ... Read full story
 6/12/2009
ACVIM Releases EHV-1 Consensus Statement   *
The American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine has released its consensus statement on equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). According to the authors, a perceived increase in the occurrence of equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (the neurologic form of EHV-1) was the impetus for the statement. The publication addresses 10 key areas to guide veterinarians ... Read full story
 6/3/2009
New Cloning Technology Might Mean Improved EHV Vaccines  *
Japanese researchers recently reported the use of the technology "Bacterial Artificial Chromosome (BAC) cloning," which enabled the scientists to clone the entire genome of a virus in bacteria. The technique could be used to mass produce infectious equine herpesvirus type-4 (EHV-4), allowing researchers to study differences in this and related viruses' ... Read full story
 5/19/2009
Vets Discuss Infectious Neurologic Diseases, AAEP 2008   *
What are the most important neurologic problems veterinarians face throughout the year? That's the question Debra Sellon, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, associate dean of the Graduate School at Washington State University and professor of equine medicine, and this author (Steve Reed, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM, of Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital in Lexington, Ky.) ... Read full story
 5/10/2009
Researchers Work to Better Diagnose, Treat Neurologic Herpesvirus   *
In their efforts to understand how equine herpesvirus-1 myeloencephalopathy (EHM) works, researchers are discovering better ways to diagnose, treat, and prevent the spread of the disease. In a review paper published in The Veterinary Journal, researchers with the University of California, Davis, summarized new developments and their implications. A ... Read full story
 5/5/2009
Consider Temporal Nerve Problem in Neurologic Horse Diagnosis   *
When presented with a horse demonstrating facial nerve paralysis and/or a head tilt, neurologists say veterinarians should consider temporohyoid osteoarthropathy, a disorder of the hyoid apparatus (voice box) and associated structures. Although it is not the most commonly diagnosed neurologic condition in horses, it's an important and treatable condition ... Read full story
 4/28/2009
AAEP 2008 Milne Lecture: Neurology is Not a Euphemism for Necropsy   *
When faced with a horse exhibiting neurologic disease, the importance of a thorough physical exam and diagnostic testing cannot be emphasized enough. Stephen Reed, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM, of Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital in Lexington, Ky., described selected equine neurologic diseases during his presentation of the prestigious Milne Lecture at the 2008 ... Read full story
 2/17/2009
Turfway Barn Quarantined Pending Tests; EHV-1 Suspected  *
A barn at Turfway Park was quarantined Jan. 30 after a horse that showed signs of equine herpesvirus (EHV) was euthanized, track officials confirmed later that day. The barn, which contains about 40 horses under the care of several trainers, will be quarantined pending test results of blood samples from the deceased horse, which Daily Racing Form ... Read full story
 1/31/2009
EHV-1 Quarantine Lifted at Fair Grounds   *
Officials from the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry and the Louisiana State Racing Commission have lifted the quarantine on a barn that had been in place since late December at Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots. All 66 horses in the barn tested negative for equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) the week of Jan. 11. The barn, which ... Read full story
 1/20/2009
Equine Herpesvirus Causes Texas to Ban Ship-Ins  *
The Texas Racing Commission has issued a directive to prohibit ship-in horses from Fair Grounds racetrack in New Orleans, La., following the discovery of a horse positive for equine herpesvirus-1, according to CBS sportsline.com. Yesterday (Jan. 2), Oaklawn Park in Arkansas announced it would not allow horses from Fair Grounds and other potentially ... Read full story
 1/3/2009
Vaccination Yearly Planner  *
Immunizations are the cornerstone of disease prevention if given appropriately and in a timely manner. One of the brightest spots of equine medical care for horses is the availability of many safe and effective vaccines to protect horses from infectious and noninfectious diseases. Sometimes it is confusing as to which ones your horse might need. Let's ... Read full story
 1/1/2009
EHV: Horses Allowed to Ship In to Fair Grounds  *
While a barn in Fair Grounds' stable area remains under a Louisiana State Racing Commission (LSRC) quarantine, horses will again be allowed to ship in and race at the track beginning with the Dec. 31 card. Quarantine and biosecurity measures have been in place for Barns 4A and 4B at Fair Grounds since Friday, after test results confirmed that a Thoroughbred ... Read full story
 12/30/2008
Louisiana Filly Positive for Herpesvirus; Shipped to Kentucky  *
A barn at a New Orleans race course (Fair Grounds) was quarantined today, Dec. 26, because a 3-year-old filly tested positive for equineherpes-1 (EHV-1). It may take 10 days to clear other horses trained by Dallas Stewart, who trains the filly, and Neil Howard, said Dr. Tom David, the equine medical director of the Louisiana State Racing Commission. Stewart ... Read full story
 12/26/2008
Delaware Reports Mixed Test Results on Potential EHV-1 Horses   *
According to a statement released by the Delaware Department of Agriculture, on Dec. 10, veterinarians collected blood and nasal swab samples from all horses in the Delaware barn quarantined earlier this month. These were submitted to the University of Kentucky (UK) for PCR testing to detect equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). Late on Dec. 10, Delaware ... Read full story
 12/15/2008
EHV-1 Found on Delaware Horse Farm  *
Heather Hirst, DVM, MS, Delaware State Veterinarian, announced Dec. 8 that PCR test results from the University of Kentucky confirm that a Standardbred horse in Kent County has tested positive for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1), a highly infectious viral disease of horses. The horse showed signs of illness on Dec. 3 and blood and nasal swab samples ... Read full story
 12/8/2008
EHV Hold Order Lifted at Maryland Track   *
The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) reported today that all 25 horses in Laurel Park's Barn 1 have tested negative for the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) on a second round of tests. These tests essentially end the situation that began on Nov. 12 when a 2-year old filly became neurologic and tests indicated she had the virus. ... Read full story
 11/26/2008
EHV: Laurel Park Lifts Ban on Offsite Runners  *
As the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) announced earlier today that the final 20 samples from Laurel Park's barn 1 tested negative for neurologic equine herpesvirus, the Maryland Jockey Club has amended its restrictions on offsite runners racing at Laurel Park. A temporary ban on horses shipping in to the track was put into place after a ... Read full story
 11/18/2008
EHV-1 Positive Pony in Kentucky; Not Mutant Strain  *
A 7-year-old Paint pony gelding in Scott County, Ky., has tested positive for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) on PCR (polymerase chain reaction test) and has neurologic signs, according to a statement from the Kentucky State Veterinarian's office. The pony has the "wild strain" of EHV-1, not the mutated strain that is more virulent. The pony was ridden ... Read full story
 11/18/2008
Neurologic Filly at Laurel Park Euthanized; Additional Tests Negative   *
The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) reported today that no horses in Laurel Park's Barn 1, where the filly positive for neurologic equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) was stabled, are showing signs of the virus. Because the filly's condition had not improved as of Saturday evening, her owner made the decision to euthanize her. Today, MDA Animal ... Read full story
 11/17/2008
EHV-1 Confirmed in Laurel Park Horse; Ship-Ins Stopped   *
The Maryland Jockey Club today announced that no horses will be allowed to ship into Laurel Park, except those coming from the Bowie Training Center on a Maryland Jockey Club shuttle, until further notice. The limitations were instituted after a 2-year-old filly in Barn 1 at Laurel tested presumptive positive for equine herpesvirus type-1 on Thursday. ... Read full story
 11/14/2008
Tests on Additional Laurel Park Horses Negative for EHV-1   *
The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) has reported that blood and nasal swab samples from a 2-year old filly in Laurel Park's Barn 1 have been confirmed positive for neurologic equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) through testing performed at the University of Kentucky. No other horses in Barn 1 are showing signs of EHV-1. Samples taken from ... Read full story
 11/14/2008
Neurologic Horse at Maryland Track Positive for Herpesvirus   *
The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) confirmed today that a 2-year old filly stabled in Barn 1 at Laurel Park has tested presumptive positive for equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1). Results of confirmatory testing from the University of Kentucky are pending. The horse, which was unable to stand yesterday morning, was sitting up and eating this ... Read full story
 11/13/2008
Equine Herpesvirus Update  *
While there are many types of herpesviruses that affect horses, EHV-1, with its neurologic effects and its penchant for spread amongst groups of horses, is garnering the most attention in the horse industry worldwide. Equine herpesvirus has been on the minds of many horse people over the past few years. Outbreaks have popped up all over the United ... Read full story
 11/1/2008
EHV-1 Neurologic Disease Research Ongoing   *
Despite being a relatively rare disease in horses, the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1 myeloencephalopathy, EHM) continues to cause outbreaks of disease that result in devastating losses, both emotional and economic, to the equine industry. "Signs of EHM include a sudden onset of ataxia (lack of balance and coordination), weakness, ... Read full story
 10/9/2008
ACVIM Conference Highlights  *
Among the hot topics this year were nutritional supplements, infectious disease, and metabolism problems. What do nutritional supplements, infectious diseases, and snake bites have in common? All were considered "hot topics" in equine health at the 2008 American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) Forum held at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention ... Read full story
 10/1/2008
Equine Herpesvirus Suspected in NY Racehorse Death  *
Smell My Carrots, a 3-year-old New York-bred maiden gelding, was euthanized Saturday Sept. 6 after being found in his stall in Belmont Park’s Barn 38 with a fever and unable to stand, according to New York Racing Association’s Chief Examining Veterinarian Dr. Anthony Verderosa. Blood samples have been sent to a laboratory in Kentucky, with results ... Read full story
 9/7/2008
Valacyclovir Dosage Recommendations for EHV Released  *
Oklahoma researchers interested in limiting equine herpesvirus (EHV) disease outbreaks have established specific dosing recommendations for the antiviral agent valacyclovir. The drug appears to be effective in preventing or minimizing clinical signs of the disease, but this success will cost its users. "For approximately $1,500, one week's worth ... Read full story
 8/24/2008
Monitoring and Preventing Equine Herpesvirus Abortions  *
The monitoring of abortions attributable to equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) initiated in 1957 among the Thoroughbred mare population of Central Kentucky has continued annually for the past 51 years. The number of EHV-1 abortions per 1,000 pregnant mares has remained below five since 1977 despite a doubling in size of the mare population (as illustrated ... Read full story
 8/3/2008
Emerging Equine Disease: Four Diseases/Syndromes to Watch  *
In 1968 the U.S. Surgeon General proclaimed that the war on infectious diseases had been won. Unfortunately, this statement was not true. Ongoing outbreaks of disease in humans and animals worldwide have established repeatedly that the war on infectious diseases is not over. Indeed, fully one-third of all human deaths worldwide are still caused by ... Read full story
 7/29/2008
New EHV-4, Neurologic Disease Tests Introduced  *
IDEXX Reference Laboratories has introduced two new diagnostic products to help equine veterinarians diagnose equine respiratory disease and neurologic disease. The new tests include an equine herpesvirus type-4 (EHV-4) RealPCR Test and the Equine Neurologic Disease Panel. The IDEXX EHV-4 RealPCR Test is a real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) ... Read full story
 7/24/2008
West Virginia Track Resumes Shipping, Racing  *
Officials at Charles Town Races and Slots are again allowing horses to come and go after test results indicated that a sick horse on the property does not have equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). "Everything is back to normal," said Dickie Moore, general manager of the Charles Town, W.V., facility. "We're back to racing tonight and we're letting horses ... Read full story
 7/17/2008
Barn Quarantined, Training Continues at Charles Town  *
One barn is on lockdown and movement of horses on or off the grounds has ceased, but training continues at Charles Town Races and Slots. The track instituted the precautions after a horse in its stabling area displayed neurologic signs considered to be consistent with equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). Test results are expected later today, according ... Read full story
 7/16/2008
Researchers Explore Mysteries of Equine Herpesvirus-1 Shedding   *
While it's widely hypothesized that horses shed equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) during times of stress and illness, researchers on a new study say that critically ill horses with acute gastrointestinal disease (colic or colitis) in a veterinary hospital do not appear to shed the virus. According to Elizabeth Carr, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, ACVECC, assistant ... Read full story
 7/15/2008
Movement Restrictions Enacted at West Virginia Racetrack  *
Movement of horses on or off the grounds of Charles Town Races and Slots has been called to a halt after a horse there displayed neurologic signs. The track is located in Charles Town, W.V. "The track has imposed a quarantine to keep any horses on the ground there--no movement of animals on or off the track grounds," said Buddy Davidson, communications ... Read full story
 7/15/2008
Maryland Officials Announce Availability of EHV-1 Test  *
As part of the Maryland Department of Agriculture's (MDA) ongoing work to expedite the identification and control of disease, the College Park Animal Health Diagnostic Laboratory is now able to perform polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1), the causal agent of a common equine respiratory disease that's often called ... Read full story
 6/28/2008
Vaccination Guidelines  *
Spring means vaccination time. In 2008, the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) Infectious Disease Committee released a revised online version of their "Guidelines for the Vaccination of Horses." Developing a vaccination schedule is not as straightforward as it sounds. So much of what you should vaccinate for depends upon such factors ... Read full story
 4/21/2008
EHV: Murray State Barns Remain Quarantined, No Clinical Signs Reported   *
As of April 14, a horse that had shown clinical signs consistent with equine herpesvirus myeloencephalitis while stabled at Murray State University in Murray, Ky., remains in guarded condition at a referral hospital in Lexington. Samples collected from the animal were submitted to the University of Kentucky's Livestock Disease Diagnostic Center, where ... Read full story
 4/15/2008
Equine Herpesvirus Outbreak: WCVM Resumes Clinical Services   *
Based on the results of diagnostic tests, the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) at the University of Saskatchewan has resumed all regular clinical services for equine patients at its Veterinary Teaching Hospital. The decision, which took effect at 6:00 p.m. on April 11, ends a 29-day suspension of nonemergency equine admissions to control ... Read full story
 4/14/2008
Murray State University Takes Precautions Against Spread of Equine Herpesvirus  *
One horse at the Murray State University Equine Unit in Murray, Ky., has tested positive for equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy caused by equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1), according to Rusty Ford, equine programs manager with the Kentucky Department of Agriculture, and information provided by Murray State University. The Kentucky State Veterinarian's ... Read full story
 4/9/2008
Equine Herpesvirus Meeting for Saskatchewan Horse Owners   *
The Farm Animal Council of Saskatchewan and the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) at the University of Saskatchewan are teaming up to present an informational seminar on equine herpesvirus Thursday, April 10, in Saskatoon, Sask. The meeting will take place from 7 to 9:00 p.m. in the Diefenbaker Room of the Ramada Hotel located at 806 ... Read full story
 4/7/2008
Canadian Vet School Recommends Precautions to Prevent Spread of EHV-1  *
As a precautionary measure, the Western College of Veterinary Medicine's Large Animal Clinic at the University of Saskatchewan is not accepting any nonemergency equine patients to control risks related to equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) infection. The school suspended its equine clinical services following admission of two local horses that proved to ... Read full story
 3/22/2008
Equine Herpesvirus-1: Mutant Strain an Emerging Problem  *
Scientists from the Gluck Equine Research Center and the Livestock Disease Diagnostic Center at the University of Kentucky recently reported that a particular mutant form of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) that causes myeloencephalopathy (a degenerative disease of the brain and spinal cord) in horses has the potential to pose serious health and economic ... Read full story
 3/14/2008
Emerging Disease: Equine Multinodular Pulmonary Fibrosis Update  *
According to an inaugural, multi-center report, equine herpesvirus-5 (EHV-5) is associated with a newly recognized, potentially fatal lung disease in horses called equine multinodular pulmonary fibrosis, or EMPF. "EMPF is an important emerging disease in horses that was first recognized in 2002", said lead author Kurt Williams, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVP, ... Read full story
 3/10/2008
Delaware Equine Herpesvirus Quarantines Lifted   *
Six stables in Delaware were today released from equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) quarantine, according to a statement released by the State Veterinarian Sara Busch, DVM, and the Delaware Department of Agriculture. Agriculture officials inspected the quarantined stables yesterday. There have not been any new or suspected cases of EHV-1 on these farms ... Read full story
 2/8/2008
Herpesvirus: Quarantine Orders Could Be Lifted This Week  *
The six stables currently quarantined for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) in Delaware could be released later this week, according to a statement released by State Veterinarian Sara Busch, DVM. The hold orders on these farms could be lifted Feb. 7. One horse died Jan. 17 after displaying neurologic signs. This horse was confirmed positive for EHV-1 ... Read full story
 2/5/2008
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 2/4/2008
Herpesvirus: One Horse Dead, Several Delaware Stables Quarantined   *
Six stables in Delaware are under official quarantine after a horse that displayed neurologic signs was confirmed positive for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). The affected horse was euthanatized Jan. 17. While polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests on nasal swab samples confirmed the horse to be positive for EHV-1, additional tests to determine whether ... Read full story
 1/28/2008
Herpesvirus Hold Order Lifted in Maryland   *
The Maryland Department of Agriculture has lifted the "investigational animal hold order" on Barn 7 and the isolated barn on the grandstand side of the Bowie Training Center after follow-up testing on the initial nasal swab samples sent to the University of Kentucky proved negative for the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). Blood ... Read full story
 1/25/2008
Herpesvirus Test on Maryland Horse Deemed Inconclusive   *
Blood samples on a horse that was ordered into isolation by the Maryland Department of Agriculture on Tuesday were negative for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). The "investigational animal hold order" is still in place on Barn 7 of the Bowie Training Center after the nasal swab was inconclusive. New samples will be taken this afternoon and overnighted ... Read full story
 1/24/2008
Equine Herpesvirus: Maryland Training Center Barn Quarantined   *
The Maryland Department of Agriculture announced Jan. 22 that horses stabled in Barn 7 at the Bowie Training Center cannot leave until test results are completed for a horse showing clinical signs suggestive of equine herpesvirus. Equine herpesvirus-1, which causes upper respiratory infection, can also cause neurological disease. Blood samples ... Read full story
 1/23/2008
BEVA 2007: Consider EHV-4 in Neurologic Herpes Cases  *
Sometimes everything appears to add up in an outbreak of what resembles equine herpesvirus-associated myeloencephalopathy, the dreaded neurologic condition generally caused by equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) infection that causes ataxia or paralysis. Everything, that is, except for the test results. In these cases, consider the fact it might be another ... Read full story
 1/17/2008
Test Suggests Ubiquitous Herpesvirus Strains Play Role in Abortion  *
Researchers from France have determined equine herpesvirus (EHV)-2 and -5 might play a small role in equine abortion. They used a sensitive and rapid polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test--one that can identify sections of viral DNA--in their study. EHV-1 is known to be the major herpesvirus responsible for equine abortion. The overall importance ... Read full story
 1/11/2008
Tiny Shift in Herpesvirus Causes Neurologic Form  *
Sometimes a small change can make a big difference. Such is the case with equine herpesvirus, according to researchers with Cornell's College of Veterinary Medicine. When it comes to the virus, a change in just one amino acid can make all the difference between triggering a cold or a life-threatening neurological disorder. The researchers' paper ... Read full story
 11/13/2007
Churchill Downs Herpesvirus Quarantine Lifted   *
Kentucky State Veterinarian Robert C. Stout, DVM, has lifted the quarantine on a barn at Churchill Downs after test results confirmed that the remaining horses in the barn were not infected with equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). Stout imposed the quarantine on Barn 47 in late October after a horse trained by David Carroll tested positive for the virus. ... Read full story
 11/7/2007
Equine Herpesvirus Research: Protecting Against the Neuropathogenic Strain  *
The most common infectious equine viruses are herpesvirus and influenza. So when a viral pathogen of one of them evolves and increases in virulence, and if there are no effective prevention or treatment options available for use against the emergent strain, the potential impact on the horse industry can be great. The emerging problem of equine herpesvirus-1 ... Read full story
 11/6/2007
Herpesvirus Confirmed in North Dakota  *
A North Dakota State University Extension Service horse expert says several cases of equine herpesvirus (EHV) have been reported in North Dakota and surrounding states. EHV leads to infections, and it's common throughout the United States. Equine specialist Carrie Hammer says if horse owners suspect an animal might have EHV, they should isolate the ... Read full story
 11/3/2007
Half of Churchill Downs Herpesvirus Quarantine Lifted  *
The Kentucky Department of Agriculture has lifted a quarantine order for half of Barn 47 at Churchill Downs, which was placed under quarantine Oct. 26 after a horse was found to be infected with equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). Sixteen horses trained by Al Stall Jr. were allowed to return to regular training Oct. 30 after the Kentucky Department of ... Read full story
 10/31/2007
Churchill Downs Herpesvirus: Tests Indicate Virus Isolated to One Horse  *
Thirty-five horses stabled in a barn at Churchill Downs where one other horse tested positive for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) have tested negative for the disease, leading track officials to believe the case is isolated. According to an Oct. 27 release from Churchill, the horses in Barn 47 underwent two tests--a nasal swab test and a blood test--and ... Read full story
 10/30/2007
Herpesvirus-1 Positive Horse in Kentucky  *
One barn containing 19 horses at Churchill Downs Thoroughbred racetrack in Louisville, Ky., remains under quarantine today (Oct. 30) by the Kentucky state veterinarian's office due to a horse testing positive for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) and showing neurologic signs. On Oct. 25, the Kentucky state veterinarian's office was notified by the horse's ... Read full story
 10/30/2007
Churchill Downs Officials Hope EHV-1 Case Isolated  *
Officials at Churchill Downs say a case of equine herpesvirus (EHV-1) confirmed in one horse should have limited impact on the fall meet that begins Sunday, as long as the disease is contained. The Kentucky Department of Agriculture on Oct. 26 imposed a quarantine and ordered biosecurity measures on barn 47 after a 3-year-old trained by David Carroll ... Read full story
 10/28/2007
Herpesvirus: Oregon State Vet School to Host Meeting for Horse Owners  *
The Oregon State University College of Veterinary Medicine will be hosting an informational meeting for horse owners after a second horse was reported to have the respiratory form of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). According to a statement by State Veterinarian Don Hansen, DVM, MPVM, posted on the Oregon State Web site, two Oregon horses and five Washington ... Read full story
 8/13/2007
Health Problems of Young Horses in Training  *
Young horses in training are vulnerable to a wide variety of problems--everything from respiratory disease to training injuries. These horses are often taken off the farm where they grew up, transported to training facilities where they experience a new environment, and exposed to other horses from various places. This commingling of youngsters means ... Read full story
 8/1/2007
New Respiratory Ailment Identified; Progressive Disease Might Have Link to EHV-5   *
Researchers have recently identified a new equine respiratory ailment that presents clinical signs similar to heaves, but that is progressive and has a poor prognosis for affected horses. The researchers have postulated that the disease, dubbed equine multinodular pulmonary fibrosis, might be linked to equine herpesvirus-5, a common virus that has ... Read full story
 7/26/2007
A Look Inside: Veterinary Internists Meet in Seattle  *
Veterinary internists met June 6-9 in Seattle, Wash., for the 25th Forum of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) to discuss the latest research on the internal workings of horses and other animals. Summarized below are some of the highlights for horse owners: Pain Management in Horses Debra Sellon, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, ... Read full story
 7/23/2007
Respiratory Viruses Detected at Shows, Sales  *
In a survey of horses arriving at several different show and sale facilities, researchers found that as many as 4% of the population were shedding equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) from nasal passages, and as many as 2% were shedding equine herpesvirus-4 (EHV-4), based on a real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests. Josie Traub-Dargatz, DVM, MS, of ... Read full story
 7/18/2007
Awakening the Dormant Dragon: The Neurological Form of EHV-1   *
Recently, a number of racetracks, private veterinary clinics, and university teaching hospitals outside of California were shut down to limit the spread of the neurological form of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) infection. California had at least four reported cases of EHV-1 in 2006 and another four cases so far in 2007, but no facilities have been ... Read full story
 5/27/2007
Herpesvirus at Balmoral Harness Track Leads to Increased Precautions   *
After 20 horses at Balmoral Race Park, Crete, Ill., tested positive for neurologic equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) last week, track officials have instituted numerous precautions to minimize the commingling of horses and opportunity for transmission of the virus. According to David Fitzpatrick, DVM, Illinois Racing Board chief veterinarian, the cases ... Read full story
 5/3/2007
Update on an EHV-1 Survivor  *
Radar, a 22-year-old Quarter Horse at a private stable in Glenelg, Md., looks good for his age. He looks even better when you consider that two years ago he was given a 50/50 chance of survival when stricken with the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus-1. Jordan Hanson, a riding student at Columbia Horse Center, was one of Radar's first ... Read full story
 4/17/2007
Demystifying Neurologic Herpes   *
Our attention has recently been captured by reports of numerous outbreaks of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) neurologic disease at racetracks, show venues, clinics, and boarding stables across the country. Questions about the neuropathogenic herpesvirus are the buzz of the industry. The intent here is to address several misconceptions about neurologic ... Read full story
 4/16/2007
EHV: Tests Ongoing for Cause of Hong Kong Fevers  *
The cause of mild fevers in 132 horses at Hong Kong's Sha Tin Racecourse is still under investigation, according to Brian Stewart, BVSc (hons), MBA, head of Veterinary Regulation and international liaison for the Hong Kong Jockey Club. The Associated Press reported earlier this week that the fevers were caused by equine herpesvirus (EHV). Stewart ... Read full story
 4/14/2007
Equine Herpesvirus Infects 132 Horses in Hong Kong; No Neuro Signs Reported  *
According to reports, 132 horses at Hong Kong's Sha Tin Racecourse have contracted equine herpesvirus (EHV). Track officials have not reported any neurologic signs. The infected horses have shown mild fevers and unspecified "mild blood abnormalities," along with swollen legs. Horses have been recovering uneventfully within a few days. According to ... Read full story
 4/10/2007
Equine Herpesvirus Confirmed in Maine   *
On March 28, 2007, a horse housed in a private stable in Rome, Me., was diagnosed with the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). The 3-year-old gelding had been euthanatized on March 19, 2007, after exhibiting severe neurologic signs over a 24-hour period. A 17-year-old horse at the same location had died of similar signs one day earlier. ... Read full story
 3/31/2007
Equine Herpesvirus Reported in Florida Horses   *
Two horses in a suburb of Tampa, Fla., were euthanatized last weekend after showing deteriorating clinical signs of the neurological form of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). Both horses tested positive for the virus on numerous samples submitted for testing. State officials have placed the barn under official quarantine. No link has been established ... Read full story
 3/30/2007
EHV: Leesburg Equine Medical Center to Reopen Friday  *
Officials at Virginia Tech's Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center announced today (March 29) that the facility will reopen to outpatients on Friday, March 30, following the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services' issuance of an official release of quarantine on March 28. The hospital is scheduled to resume full operations, ... Read full story
 3/29/2007
Herpesvirus Tests: All Clear at duPont Center in Virginia  *
Nathaniel White, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVS, Jean Ellen Shehan Professor and Director of the Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center in Leesburg, Va., stated late this afternoon (March 29), "I am pleased to announce that yesterday, I received the EHV-1 (equine herpesvirus-1) test results for the remaining six horses in the Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical ... Read full story
 3/29/2007
Equine Herpesvirus: Vets Investigating Source of California Cases  *
Veterinarians are continuing to investigate the source of the recent outbreak of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) in San Mateo County, Calif. While some reports have claimed a link between these cases and a case from December, a veterinarian monitoring the cases said it's unlikely that such a link exists. "We'd like to tie everybody to that horse that ... Read full story
 3/28/2007
Equine Herpesvirus: Anatomy of an Outbreak  *
Researchers connected to an outbreak of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) in Ohio at the University of Findlay's English riding facility several years ago have recently published a report correlating age and specific clinical signs to horses' incidence of neurologic disease and chance of survival. These findings could serve as guidelines for predicting ... Read full story
 3/26/2007
Equine Herpesvirus: California Cases Cause Quarantines, Cancellations  *
Articles by Lisa M. Krieger of MediaNews group posted today (March 25) stated that the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) had claimed the lives of three horses and caused illness in several others on the San Mateo coast in Californina, causing many stables to stop movement of horses and resulting in events cancelled. Krieger's articles ... Read full story
 3/25/2007
California Equine Herpesvirus Update  *
Five horses have been confirmed positive for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) in San Mateo County, Calif. Results are pending on one other horse. Three horses have been euthanatized, and three are undergoing acyclovir antiviral treatment. Wayne Browing, DVM, of Bayhill Equine, has been monitoring the cases. He will be leading a public meeting on EHV-1 ... Read full story
 3/20/2007
Equine Herpesvirus: Maryland Lifts Final Hold Orders   *
The Maryland Department of Agriculture today (March 19) received the final outstanding equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) negative test results taken last week, for a total of 62 negative tests. As a result of these negative tests all properties of interest have been fully released from hold orders. The final farms released are in Carroll and Harford counties. ... Read full story
 3/19/2007
Herpesvirus: Two California Horses Euthanatized   *
Veterinarians at the University of California, Davis, euthanatized two horses from San Mateo County last week after the horses showed neurologic signs and were confirmed positive for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). Three stables in the Moss Beach/Montara area are under voluntary quarantine. According to a statement released by the San Mateo County ... Read full story
 3/19/2007
Herpesvirus: More Horses Released from Equine Medical Center   *
Horses at Virginia Tech's Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center are being released from three of the four biosecurity perimeters that were established within the hospital. The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services enacted the equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) quarantine Feb. 20. The state veterinarian has authorized the release ... Read full story
 3/16/2007
Herpesvirus: Equine Medical Center Quarantine Partially Lifted  *
A quarantine imposed on Virginia Tech's Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center by the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Feb. 20 due to an equine herpesvirus (EHV-1) infection has been partially lifted. Two horses being held within one of the biosecurity perimeters established within the hospital were discharged from the hospital ... Read full story
 3/12/2007
Herpesvirus: Additional Virginia Quarantines Lifted  *
Virginia State Veterinarian Richard Wilkes, DVM, has lifted additional quarantines imposed due to equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). A farm in Fauquier County and the Marine Corps Base in Quantico have been released. The VDACS Web site contains updated quarantine information at www.vdacs.virginia.gov/animals/ehv-quarantine.shtml. Although horses on ... Read full story
 3/10/2007
Equine Herpesvirus: Three Virginia Quarantines Lifted  *
Virginia State Veterinarian Richard Wilkes, DVM, yesterday (March 7) lifted the quarantine on one farm in Middleburg, Loudoun County. Although a horse on the farm might have come in contact with an EHV-1 infected horse at the Equine Medical Center (EMC) in Leesburg, no horses on the farm have shown any sign of illness compatible with EHV and had additional ... Read full story
 3/8/2007
Herpesvirus: University of Connecticut Quarantine Lifted  *
Equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) quarantines in Connecticut have been lifted. The virus affected an equine hospital and the herd at the University of Connecticut (UConn). On Dec. 24, 2006, a horse at Fairfield Equine Associates in Newtown, Conn., tested positive for the disease. On Jan. 9, 2007, EHV-1 was detected in horses at the University of Connecticut. ... Read full story
 3/7/2007
Herpesvirus: Sixth Virginia Horse Positive  *
The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced March 2 that a horse from a second farm in Loudoun County tested positive for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). This is the sixth horse from Virginia to test positive. Officials are awaiting lab results on two additional horses at the present time. The latest positive test ... Read full story
 3/5/2007
Herpesvirus Shuts Down Virginia Horse Shows  *
An outbreak of an equine herpes virus has prompted Virginia's state veterinarian to shut down all horse shows and public horse sales. At least five horses have tested positive and several northern Virginia counties have been quarantined. Wednesday (Feb. 28), the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services announced that all shows and ... Read full story
 3/2/2007
Herpesvirus Outbreak Update to be Presented at Virginia Tech  *
The Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine (VMRCVM) and Virginia Cooperative Extension will present "Update on the Neurological Equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) Outbreak in Virginia" on Tuesday, March 6, as part of an ongoing "Tuesday Evening Talks" lecture series. The presentation, which will feature Dr. Scott Pleasant, an associate ... Read full story
 3/2/2007
Herpesvirus: Maryland Lifts Additional Hold Orders  *
The Maryland Department of Agriculture yesterday (Feb. 28) received the final outstanding equine herpesvirus-1 negative test results taken last week, for a total of 30 negative tests. As a result of this negative test, a total of 10 of the 13 properties of interest have been fully released from hold orders; two of the properties have "conditional or ... Read full story
 3/1/2007
Va. Public Horse Sales and Auctions Cancelled Until Monday  *
State officials have cancelled all public horse sales and auctions throughout Virginia. The move is part of continuing efforts to stop the spread of the highly contagious equine herpesvirus. It remains in effect through Monday. Last week, officials placed a quarantine on ten horse facilities in northern Virginia. The Virginia Department of Agriculture ... Read full story
 3/1/2007
AAEP Convention 2006: Medicine  *
Uplifting Applications for UC Davis Large Animal Lift John Madigan, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVIM, professor of medicine and epidemiology and section chief of equine medicine at the University of California, Davis, developed the UC Davis Large Animal Lift (LAL) with colleagues over the last several years. He reported on the lift's applications and success ... Read full story
 3/1/2007
Herpesvirus: Update on Equine Medical Center Quarantine, Meetings  *
The status of Virginia Tech's Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center has not changed since Monday, Feb. 26. The state-imposed quarantine is still in effect. Two of the four horses with neurologic signs have had a positive test for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). All four of the horses have been isolated and are currently in stable condition. To ... Read full story
 2/28/2007
Herpesvirus: Horses Stable at Equine Medical Center  *
A press release from Virginia Tech's Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center at 5:29 p.m. today (February 28) stated that four horses being held in the Biosafety Level 2 isolation unit at the Equine Medical Center are in stable condition after exhibiting symptoms of equine herpesviru-1 (EHV-1). According to hospital officials, two of the horses have ... Read full story
 2/28/2007
Herpesvirus: Test Results Returned on Maryland Horses  *
The Maryland Department of Agriculture has received test results taken last week from 13 Maryland horses involved in the equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) situation in Maryland and Virginia. Twelve of the test results were negative, resulting in one hold order being fully lifted from a facility in Montgomery County, Md. Hold orders on two other farms, one ... Read full story
 2/27/2007
Equine Herpesvirus: Va. Officials Awaiting Test Results   *
The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced that a horse from a farm in Fauquier County tested positive for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). This horse had been admitted to the Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center (EMC) for surgery and went to a convalescent center in Maryland to recuperate. She had to be euthanatized ... Read full story
 2/27/2007
Herpesvirus: More Negative Maryland Tests  *
The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) today (Feb. 27) at 5:20 p.m. announced that test results taken last week from 16 more Maryland horses involved in the equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) situation in Maryland and Virginia, for a total of 28 negative tests. As a result of these negative tests, eight of the 13 properties of interest are being fully ... Read full story
 2/27/2007
3 Va. Counties, Quantico Added to EHV Horse Quarantine  *
Three counties and Quantico Marine Base have been added to a horse quarantine because of a suspected infection of the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus (EHV), officials said Friday (Feb. 23). The quarantine involves 175 horses and includes Virginia Tech's equine medical center in Leesburg. The quarantined counties are Culpeper, Fauquier and Loudoun. ... Read full story
 2/25/2007
Equine Herpesvirus: Va. Tech Holding Informational Meeting   *
Virginia Tech's Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center will be holding an informational meeting for clients concerning the suspected EHV-1 infection from 7:00 pm. to 9:00 p.m. on Monday, February 26, at the Best Western Leesburg-Dulles (726 East Market Street, Leesburg, Va.). Representatives from the State Veterinarians' offices in Virginia and ... Read full story
 2/23/2007
Racetracks Impose Restrictions Due to EHV-1 Concerns  *
Penn National and Charles Town racetracks have imposed restrictions on horses shipping to their tracks as a result of suspected cases of equine herpesvirus in the Mid Atlantic region. Penn National reported that its stable area has been closed effective immediately to all horses arriving from tracks, farms and training centers in Virginia, West Virginia, ... Read full story
 2/23/2007
No EHV-1 Positive Horses In Maryland, Some Hold Orders in Effect   *
According to a statement released by the Maryland Department of Agriculture yesterday (Feb. 22), there are no known positive cases of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) in Maryland. However, eight facilities are under mandatory investigational hold orders to prevent the movement of horses on or off the property, as animals which were at the Marion duPont ... Read full story
 2/23/2007
Herpesvirus: Horses Being Tested At Five New Maryland Locations  *
A release from the Maryland Department of Agriculture at 6 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 23, noted that, "As of today there are five new facilities of interest (for equine herpesvirus type 1), for a total of 13, under hold orders based on new information from the Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center ... Samples were taken today from horses on those properties. ... Read full story
 2/23/2007
Herpesvirus: Md. Officials Investigating Five Exposed Horses  *
The Maryland Department of Agriculture is conducting a neurologic equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) investigation in six locations in Maryland, including five horses currently located in the state. The investigation is warranted because these horses had possible indirect exposure to an EHV-1 test-positive horse initially under treatment for colic at the ... Read full story
 2/21/2007
Herpesvirus: Six Virginia Farms Quarantined  *
Under the direction of State Veterinarian Richard Wilkes, veterinarians with the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) are currently quarantining six farms in Northern Virginia with horses that might have been exposed to a horse infected with the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). The Maryland Department of ... Read full story
 2/21/2007
Leesburg, Va., Equine Medical Center Under Herpesvirus Quarantine  *
State officials have imposed a quarantine of the Virginia Tech Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center's facilities effective immediately due to the suspected infection of the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus (EHV-1) in three hospitalized horses. No additional patients will be admitted to the hospital until further notice. Clients who have questions ... Read full story
 2/21/2007
Equine Herpesvirus: Valtrex Treatment Appears Successful  *
Can antiviral drugs be used to successfully treat horses with equine herpesvirus? Recent research into the drug Valacyclovir (trade name Valtrex) seems to indicate it has a place in treating horses exposed to--and diagnosed with--equine herpesvirus. Numerous outbreaks of neurological disease due to a variant strain of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) ... Read full story
 2/18/2007
Herpesvirus: N.Y. Horse Euthanatized  *
Just days after a false alarm reporting a positive case of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) in Dutchess County, N.Y., a horse there was euthanatized after showing neurologic signs consistent with EHV-1. Test results confirmed the horse was positive for the virus. According to Jessica Chittenden, director of public information for the New York State Department ... Read full story
 2/7/2007
Equine Herpesvirus Wisconsin Cases Not Related to Other Outbreaks   *
A flare-up of equine herpesvirs-1 (EHV-1) cases in Jefferson County, Wisc., which has led to the euthanasia of two horses, is not related to any other recent outbreaks, according to Scott Austin, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM, of the Wisconsin Equine Clinic in Oconomowoc. "We know of absolutely no link," Austin stated. "There are no horses in their barn that ... Read full story
 2/6/2007
Herpesvirus Confirmed in Wisconsin Horses; Two Euthanatized   *
Two horses in Jefferson County, Wisc., have been confirmed positive for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1), according to a statement written by Scott Austin, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM, of the Wisconsin Equine Clinic, and released on the Wisconsin Horse Council Web site. Two horses, one of which tested negative for the virus, displayed neurologic signs and were euthanatized. ... Read full story
 2/5/2007
Two Los Alamitos Horse Deaths Attributed to EHV-1  *
Edited CHRB report Rick Arthur, DVM, equine medical director for the California Horse Racing Board, reported Monday that two barns are under quarantine at Los Alamitos Race Course following the deaths of two horses from the equine herpesvirus (EHV-1). One was a stable pony; the other was a racehorse. Laboratory results are pending on several suspect ... Read full story
 1/30/2007
Florida Lifts All Equine Herpesvirus Quarantines  *
All quarantines in effect for horse farms and clinics due to the recent equine herpesvirus outbreak have been lifted, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Affairs said. “We released the last facility (Jan. 20),” department spokesman Mark Fagan said. “We feel that we reached containment in the areas that were affected in Martin, Marion, ... Read full story
 1/23/2007
EHV Alert Clarified, No Confirmed Cases in New York   *
An alert regarding a case of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) put out by the Dutchess County, N.Y., Cornell Cooperative Extension earlier today (Jan. 23) is being clarified. While the release stated EHV-1 had been diagnosed, Jessica Chittenden, director of public information for the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, said the horse ... Read full story
 1/23/2007
Herpesvirus: 21 University of Connecticut Horses Showing Clinical Signs  *
More horses at the University of Connecticut have come down with equine herpesvirus, which forced the school to quarantine the 72-horse herd two weeks ago, UConn officials said Thursday (Jan. 18). Currently 21 horses are showing signs of the equine herpesvirus, up from about 10 when the quarantine was imposed. Of the 21 horses that are sick, five ... Read full story
 1/19/2007
Herpesvirus Prevention: Connecticut Vet Offers Tips   *
Simple good horsemanship and reasonable hygiene are the keys to preventing an outbreak of equine herpesvirus (EHV), according to Rick Mitchell, DVM, a veterinarian with Fairfield Equine Associates in Newtown, Conn. Mitchell made the following suggestions for an equine facility hosting horses from the outside population for an event, such as a clinic ... Read full story
 1/19/2007
Connecticut Veterinarians Meet to Discuss EHV   *
CHC would like to report that Stewart Beckett, DVM, chairman of the board for The Connecticut Horse Council, Inc., attended a meeting convened by the Connecticut Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) Equine Committee which took place on Monday (Jan. 15). This meeting was specific to the current outbreaks of equine herpesvirus (EHV) in the state. Connecticut ... Read full story
 1/18/2007
University of Rhode Island Horses Under Voluntary EHV Quarantine  *
The University of Rhode Island's equestrian team coach has placed the team's horses under voluntary quarantine to prevent equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) infection. Barn visitors are required to disinfect their shoes and hands, riders cannot bring their own tack, and horses cannot be transported on or off the farm, reports The Providence Journal. "There's ... Read full story
 1/17/2007
California Vets Provide EHV-1 Update, Offer Prevention Advice  *
While one barn at Los Alamitos remains under quarantine due to equine herpesvirus-1 positives, the situation in California appears to have calmed down considerably. Rick Arthur, DVM, the California Horse Racing Board equine medical director, brought listeners up-to-date during a meeting Tuesday at Santa Anita. Speakers at the meeting, which not only ... Read full story
 1/17/2007
Connecticut Veterinarians Meeting to Discuss EHV  *
As most horse owners in Connecticut are now aware, there has been an ongoing outbreak of equine herpesvirus (EHV) in other states in recent weeks, most notably in Florida and California. On Dec. 24, 2006, a horse at Fairfield Equine Associates in Newtown Conn., developed a fever and was tested. This horse was confirmed with the neurological form of ... Read full story
 1/15/2007
EHV Status: Florida State Officials Close to Sounding All Clear   *
With the majority of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) quarantines lifted in Wellington, Fla., state officials there are close to declaring an end of the outbreak that left six horses dead. Three of the remaining four quarantines could be lifted tomorrow (Jan. 16). "We have released six of the 10 facilities and expect to be able to get results back probably ... Read full story
 1/15/2007
Herpesvirus Spreading Within University of Connecticut Horse Herd   *
Several more horses are showing clinical signs consistent with equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) at the University of Connecticut equine facility, according to Sandra Bushmich, DVM, MS, section head of the Diagnostic Testing Services Laboratory, at the Connecticut Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory. "As of (Thursday), we still had some additional cases ... Read full story
 1/13/2007
EHV-1 Quarantine Lifted in Northern Cal; 3 New Cases at Los Alamitos  *
Quarantine restrictions at Golden Gate Fields, Bay Meadows and the Alameda County Fair at Pleasanton due to the presence of Equine Herpes Virus-1 were lifted Jan. 10, but three new cases of EHV-1 at Los Alamitos Race Course have been confirmed, according to a California Horse Racing Board advisory. "There have been no additional clinical cases of ... Read full story
 1/11/2007
Herpesvirus: University of Connecticut Horses Quarantined  *
The University of Connecticut, working with the Connecticut Department of Agriculture, has quarantined its 72-horse herd due to an outbreak of equine herpesvirus infection. Equine herpesvirus (EHV), or equine rhinopneumonitis, is passed from horse to horse through respiratory discharges. People cannot contract EHV, although they can inadvertently ... Read full story
 1/10/2007
Equine Herpesvirus: Three Neurologic Cases at University of Connecticut   *
Three horses at the University of Connecticut have been confirmed positive for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) and are showing neurologic signs. Several exposed horses are showing respiratory signs. The university's 72-horse herd is currently under quarantine with biosecurity measures in place. The horses are being treated and monitored. Connecticut ... Read full story
 1/10/2007
Herpesvirus: Kentucky Vet Speaks in Florida  *
Doug Byars, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM, a private veterinary consultant in Lexington, Ky., who formerly headed the Hagyard equine veterinary group's medicine department in that city, was invited to tour the equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) affected areas in Florida and address horse owners and veterinarians. Byars' extensive experience with contagious/infectious ... Read full story
 1/9/2007
EHV-1 Update: Most Payson Park Horses Out of Quarantine  *
A state-imposed quarantine on most horses stabled at Florida’s Payson Park Training Center was lifted Friday, Jan. 5, as the recent outbreak of equine herpesvirus-1 continued to abate. Mary Scollay, DVM, track veterinarian for Gulfstream Park and Calder Racecourse, said Jan. 7 that only about 40-60 horses among the approximately 500 horses stabled ... Read full story
 1/8/2007
Equine Herpesvirus: No Extra Precautions on German Imports   *
The USDA is notifying German authorities about the shipment of horses believed to be responsible for the outbreak of neurologic equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) that resulted in six deaths in Florida, and an additional death in California. "We're not aware of Germany doing any investigations or tracing, and we have not heard there's an outbreak there, ... Read full story
 1/8/2007
Herpesvirus Testing Increases at Kentucky Diagnostic Center  *
The number of samples tested for equine herpesvirus (EHV) at the University of Kentucky Livestock Disease Diagnostic Center (LDDC) rose in 2006 from an average of less than 1,000 tests per year to about 3,500 last year. Neil Williams, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVP, associate professor at the University of Kentucky and a boarded veterinary pathologist at the ... Read full story
 1/6/2007
Herpes Tests Show Five of Six Negative at Golden Gate  *
Five of the six horses previously identified with equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) at Golden Gate Fields Thoroughbred Racetrack in California tested negative in samples taken Jan. 5, reported the director of the large animal clinic at the University of California, Davis. "This strongly suggests that they are no longer shedding virus and therefore no ... Read full story
 1/6/2007
EHV: Five More California Horses Positive for Neurogenic Strain   *
Five more horses from trainer Lloyd Mason's barn at Golden Gate Fields have tested positive for a neurogenic strain of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) after final samples were tested on New Year's Day, although none are showing symptoms of the illness, officials said Jan. 3. In spite of the additional positives, the lack of clinical signs of the virus ... Read full story
 1/4/2007
Herpesvirus Meeting Attracts Huge Crowd   *
Stadium Jumping Inc. hosted a meeting in The Jockey Club at the Winter Equestrian Festival show grounds in Florida today (Jan. 4) to discuss the equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) outbreak. Approximately 500 concerned horse owners and professionals attended, and many pertinent questions were asked of the panel. Doug Byars, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM, former head ... Read full story
 1/4/2007
Florida Officials Optimistic EHV-1 is Under Control  *
Florida racetrack and state officials say they're cautiously optimistic that the current outbreak is over, with no new cases of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) detected. A sixth Florida horse died last Friday. That horse was part of a group already under state-imposed quarantine. "We go out daily and still have yet to find any new positives of suspects ... Read full story
 1/3/2007
EHV: No Link Between Conn. Case and Other Cases   *
A horse at Fairfield Equine Associates in Newtown, Conn., that tested positive for the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) last week does not appear to be linked to the group of imported horses whose distribution gave rise to an outbreak in Florida and one death in California. According to Rick Mitchell, DVM, the horse had arthroscopic ... Read full story
 1/2/2007
Ocala Herpesvirus Meeting: A Veterinarian's Perspective   *
On Dec. 20 the state of Florida, in conjunction with the University of Florida's College of Veterinary Medicine, held an afternoon equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) meeting for veterinarians, farm managers, and horse owners in Ocala, Fla., at the Ocala Breeders Sales Building. Presenters at this meeting discussed the equine herpes outbreak, including clinical ... Read full story
 1/2/2007
EHV-1 Update: Northern Cal Horsemen Await Test Results  *
The equine herpesvirus quarantine continued at three Bay Area tracks Dec. 31 as Northern California horsemen await test results that won't be known until after the New Year's weekend. All 40 horses in Lloyd Mason's barn have been tested, according to Golden Gate Fields spokesman Tom Ferrall. Mason's Royal Brass, a 3-year-old gelding, became the first ... Read full story
 1/1/2007
EHV Identified at Fairfield Equine Associates   *
The following is a public notice from the Fairfield Equine Associates Web site, www.fairfieldequine.com. Fairfield Equine Associates is an equine medical facility in Newtown, Conn. We recently identified a strain of herpesvirus in a horse hospitalized at our facility. This horse was admitted to our facility from his stable in Vermont on Dec. ... Read full story
 12/31/2006
EHV: Sixth Florida Horse Euthanatized Friday  *
Veterinarians believe they have controlled an outbreak of a highly contagious equine virus responsible for the deaths of six horses. The latest horse to get seriously ill was euthanatized Friday and two more are being monitored for signs of the illness, state agriculture officials said. "This is not alarming to us because this death is within the ... Read full story
 12/31/2006
EHV-1 Update: Golden Gate Horse Positive; Quarantine Issued  *
Golden Gate Fields, Bay Meadows and Pleasanton were placed under quarantine Dec. 29 after a horse from Golden Gate was diagnosed as positive for the neurogenic strain of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). The California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) Friday issued an advisory placing the three tracks under quarantine as one facility. Racing will continue as ... Read full story
 12/30/2006
Palm Beach Equine Vets Discuss EHV Timeline, Applaud Cooperation   *
The Palm Beach Equine Clinic (PBEC), a veterinary practice in Wellington, Fla., has been dealing with the recent equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) outbreak. Two positive horses were admitted to the clinic before their condition was known, but veterinarians say quarantine procedures have worked as intended, and they plan to reopen in early January. Palm ... Read full story
 12/29/2006
Isolated Equine Herpesvirus Case in California; Vet Calls State "Fortunate"  *
A gelding that died of neurologic equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) in California remains the only confirmed EHV-1 case in the state. This horse was the first to be traced back to the import group containing the horses that eventually went to Wellington, Fla., a discovery that made the veterinary community aware of the potential for a major outbreak. "We've ... Read full story
 12/29/2006
Impact of EHV-1 on Florida Tracks Could be Minimal  *
Barring an always-possible turn of events, the recent outbreak of equine herpesvirus (EHV-1) in Florida might have a minimal impact on the state's racetracks. State officials were considering lifting the quarantine on horses at Payson Park after a Dec. 27 tour of the training facility located near Indiantown, where about 515 Thoroughbreds have assembled ... Read full story
 12/28/2006
Florida Officials, Horse Enthusiasts Struggle with Equine Virus   *
For about two decades, only occasional mechanical problems could delay polo player Owen Rinehart's annual trip to South Florida for the start of the winter season. This year, however, his plans to log early training time were derailed by an equine virus outbreak that has killed five horses and left others under quarantine in Florida. "Everyone is ... Read full story
 12/27/2006
Herpesvirus In Florida: Cases Hold Steady at Nine   *
The number of positive neurologic equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) cases in the state stands at nine horses--seven in the Wellington area, one in Ocala, and one in Indiantown--according to today's update (Dec. 27) from Florida's Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (DOACS). Five Florida deaths have been attributed to EHV-1, "although only two ... Read full story
 12/27/2006
Herpesvirus Vaccination Recommendations  *
The following vaccination recommendations for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) were made by Julia Wilson, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM, associate professor of Veterinary Population Medicine at the University of Minnesota. There is some debate among researchers and veterinarians on which vaccine (modified live or killed) is best. Wilson reminds horse owners that no ... Read full story
 12/27/2006
Monday's Florida EHV-1 Status Report  *
The following edited release is from the Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services' Division of Animal Industry. Equine Herpesvirus-1 Status Report--Florida Revised December 25, 2006, at 12:30 pm Nine cases of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) have been confirmed with laboratory testing from horses, seven in the Wellington area, one in ... Read full story
 12/26/2006
Precautionary Equine Measures Taken at Tampa Bay Downs  *
As of Dec. 19, Tampa Bay Downs in Oldsmar, Fla., will be restricting access to its barn area. There will be no backside admittance in except for race-and-go shippers, who will be restricted to a quarantined receiving barn. Currently, there are no cases of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) at Tampa Bay Downs. As a precaution, the following control measures ... Read full story
 12/26/2006
Herpesvirus Stops Event; Equestrian Triathlon on Hold  *
In light of the recent outbreak of the equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1), organizers of this year's Sidelines Equestrian Triathlon have postponed the event originally scheduled for Jan. 6, 2007, at Palm Beach Polo Equestrian Club in Wellington, Fla. Samantha Charles, publisher of Sidelines Magazine, regretfully announced, "At this time, I am afraid that ... Read full story
 12/26/2006
"Tuesday Talk" Highlights Neurologic Issues  *
The Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center presented "Equine Neurological Issues Over the Life Course" during its first Tuesday Talk session of the season. The seminar, which was held in Leesburg, Virginia, on Tuesday, Dec. 5, featured Martin O. Furr, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM who is the Adelaide C. Riggs Chair in Equine Medicine at the center. The ... Read full story
 12/24/2006
Officials: Equine Virus Kills Fifth Horse  *
An equine herpes virus first detected in Palm Beach County, Fla., has killed another horse. A spokesman from the Florida Department of Agriculture said the horse died Friday at Payso Park, a 500-horse facility in Martin County now under a state-mandated quarantine. It is believed to be the fifth to die of the recent virus, called EHV-1, Equine Rhinopneumontis, ... Read full story
 12/24/2006
Florida Herpesvirus Outbreak Leads to Restrictions at Calder Race Course   *
Florida Herpesvirus Outbreak Leads to Restrictions at Calder Race Course An outbreak of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) in Wellington, Fla., has led to restrictions on horse movement at Calder Race Course. Horses in two barns have been separated from the general population and cannot enter or race. New horses are not being allowed to ship in for long-term ... Read full story
 12/23/2006
Equine Herpesvirus: Eight EHV-1 Cases Confirmed  *
Eight cases of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) have been confirmed with laboratory testing from horses, seven in the Wellington area and one in Ocala, Fla. The Ocala horse shipped from south Florida and had a direct link to one of the horses shipped in from New York, on November 29th. Four deaths have been attributed to this disease, although only one ... Read full story
 12/22/2006
Herpesvirus Update: Fourth Florida Horse Dead   *
A fourth horse exposed to equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) has died, according to officials with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The horse was exposed to the virus while stabled at the Palm Beach Equine Sports Complex, where the first case occurred. The facility has been under quarantine. This horse had not shown any clinical ... Read full story
 12/22/2006
Herpesvirus Update: Ocala Crowd Attends EHV Meeting, Horse Recovering   *
Yesterday (Dec. 20), Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services officials held a meeting to address concerns and management issues related to the recent equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) outbreak in Wellington. More than 300 people attended the meeting at the Ocala Breeders' Sales Company. "The purpose of the meeting was to get information ... Read full story
 12/21/2006
Equine Herpesvirus: No EHV-1 in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania   *
Representatives of the Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania Departments of Agriculture verified today that there are no known cases of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) or official quarantines in their state. These states received horses that were a part of the shipment of 15 from Germany that has been traced to EHV-1 deaths in both Florida and ... Read full story
 12/21/2006
Calder Closes Stable Area to New Horses; Takes Other EHV-1 Precautions  *
Edited press release Calder Race Course track veterinarian Mary Scollay, DVM, announced Dec. 19 that precautionary measures are being taken regarding equine herpesvirus, a contagious disease spread among horses with flu-like symptoms, including fever or respiratory infection. "As of Dec. 19, two barns at Calder Race Course have been placed under ... Read full story
 12/20/2006
State Vet Investigating EHV in Ocala and Jupiter, Fla.   *
Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner Charles Bronson says the department's Division of Animal Industry is continuing the investigation into the presence of equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) in several areas of the state including Wellington, Jupiter and the Ocala area. EHV-1 can be a serious disease of horses. The virus can spread ... Read full story
 12/20/2006
Herpesvirus Outbreak: No EHV-1 in New Hampshire, Tennessee, Carolinas   *
State veterinarians from New Hampshire, Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina have identified the horses exposed to equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) and are dealing with the situation. In New Hampshire, State Veterinarian Stephen K. Crawford, DVM, reported the imported horse has been located and is in quarantine at its original location ... Read full story
 12/20/2006
Herpesvirus Update: Kentucky Mare Cleared  *
Since equine herpesvirus (EHV) is not a federally reportable disease, state officials have become better at communicating among themselves when there might be a problem involving EHV. Such was the case when a shipment of 15 horses from Germany was quarantined at a New York facility, and horses from that shipment have been confirmed wtih the neurologic ... Read full story
 12/19/2006
Herpesvirus-Exposed Horses Located in 10 States   *
The 14 horses imported and quarantined with the animal believed responsible for the outbreak of equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) in Wellington, Fla., have been located, according to Jim Rogers, media coordinator for the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). Rogers said the state veterinarians of Massachusetts, New Hamphsire, ... Read full story
 12/19/2006
Sick Horse in Ocala Confirmed Positive for EHV-1   *
Test results have confirmed that a sick racehorse in Ocala, Fla., has equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1), and an additional horse in Jupiter, Fla., is showing neurologic signs, according to The South Florida Sun-Sentinel. Liz Compton, a spokeswoman for the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, told The Sun-Sentinel the Ocala horse is ... Read full story
 12/19/2006
Florida State Vet: EHV Confirmed, 15 Clinical Cases  *
As of Saturday (Dec. 16), five cases of equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) have been confirmed with laboratory testing from horses on a quarantined premises in the Wellington, Fla., area. Four additional premises have movement restrictions in place pending further laboratory testing. Three deaths and 15 clinical cases have been attributed to this disease. ... Read full story
 12/18/2006
Wellington Closing Horse Trail, Setting Up Equine Herpesvirus Hotline   *
The South Florida Sun-Sentinel has reported Wellington, Fla., village officials will be closing the village's horse trail and creating a herpes information hotline. Village Manager Charles Lynn told The Sun-Sentinel the trail closure is in response to the quarantines imposed due to the outbreak of equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1). The new hotline ... Read full story
 12/18/2006
Herpesvirus Outbreak: State Veterinarians Notified of EHV Horse Movement   *
State veterinarians have been notified if their jurisdiction received horses that could potentially be spreading equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) from the shipment of 15 horses that included ones responsible for sparking the current outbreak of EHV-1, according to Jim Rogers, media coordinator for the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). ... Read full story
 12/18/2006
EHV Conference Draws Huge Crowd of Concerned Wellington Equestrians  *
In excess of 600 concerned people from the local equestrian community attended a press conference hosted by Stadium Jumping Inc., in the Jockey Club alongside the Internationale Arena at the Palm Beach Polo Equestrian Center this morning (Dec. 16). Unfortunately, on a weekend when the site should have been teeming with horses and people at the AGA ... Read full story
 12/16/2006
State Vet: Two Deaths, Two Official EHV Quarantines in Wellington  *
State Officials in Florida are investigating a possible outbreak of equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) in the Wellington, Fla., area. Affected animals have been associated with the importation of horses through the USDA New York animal import station. Laboratory confirmation is still pending. Thus far, two horses have been euthanatized and other animals ... Read full story
 12/15/2006
Florida Equine Neurologic Outbreak: Tip of the Iceberg?   *
The source of the current outbreak of neurologic illness in Wellington, Fla., has been traced back to a shipment of 15 horses imported from Europe the last week of November. The horses were housed together at a quarantine facility in New York. One of the 15 died after being shipped to California and was diagnosed with equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). ... Read full story
 12/15/2006
USDA Veterinarian to Discuss Equine Herpesvirus with Concerned Wellington Equestrians   *
On Saturday, Dec. 16, USDA Government Veterinarian, Dr. Julie Gauthier, will meet with equestrians, community members, and members of the media to discuss the equine rhinopneumonitis. The disease, also known as equine herpesvirus or EHV, is a highly infectious viral disease that may be affecting the Wellington community. Early reports indicate that ... Read full story
 12/14/2006
Wellington EHV Outbreak Details Coming into Focus   *
Numerous reports have indicated that at least one horse has died in Wellington, Fla., from a viral illness suspected to be neurologic equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV). Animal health officials are currently seeking to confirm the cause of the horse's illness. Equine herpesvirus-1 can spread through direct contact or through the air, which makes the disease ... Read full story
 12/14/2006
Florida Animal Health Officials Distribute Disease Report  *
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Service's Division of Animal Industry distributed the following Disease Report: The Division of Animal Industry is currently investigating a possible EHV-1 outbreak in Wellington, Florida. On Monday Dec. 11, this office was contacted concerning two horses that had neurological signs consistent with ... Read full story
 12/14/2006
EHV Outbreak Closes Show in Wellington; Four Horses Reported Dead   *
The Sun-Sentinel has reported an outbreak of an undetermined equine virus at the American Grand Prix Association National Championship at the Palm Beach Polo Equestrian Club, forcing officials to cancel the show. Four horses are reported dead from a virus suspected to be equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1), including rider Debbie Stephens' horse Cosequin's ... Read full story
 12/14/2006
Colorado Veterinary Teaching Hospital Lifts EHV Quarantine   *
Colorado State University today lifted the voluntary quarantine of horses hospitalized at the James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital, initiated on Oct. 31. Close monitoring and repeated testing of quarantined horses for equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) has allowed university officials to lift the quarantine today. The hospital will resume all ... Read full story
 11/17/2006
East Coast Equine Herpesvirus Outbreak Prompts Calif. Track Regulations  *
An equine herpesvirus outbreak on the East Coast will make it tougher for racehorses from New Jersey and New York to enter the state of California. Starting today, horses will have to get prior approval from the California Horse Racing Board before coming here. Officials hope the new policy will keep this particular strain of herpes out of the state. ... Read full story
 11/13/2006
Equine Herpesvirus Quarantine at Monmouth Partially Lifted  *
A quarantine of horses at Monmouth Park for cases of equine herpesvirus (EHV) was partially lifted today after tests on two horses showing possible signs of the disease last weekend came back negative. With those two horses testing negative for the virus, the quarantine was lifted on horses in the "general population" barns at Monmouth. Since the ... Read full story
 11/13/2006
EVH Quarantine Working, New Jersey Officials Say  *
Quarantines of dozens of Thoroughbreds at two New Jersey tracks appear to have contained an outbreak of equine herpesvirus, a potentially deadly virus, officials said. The horses have been isolated at Monmouth Park in Oceanport and the Meadowlands in East Rutherford. The outbreak was discovered late last month, when 16 horses at Monmouth Park tested ... Read full story
 11/11/2006
EHV Precautions: Quarantine of 57 More Monmouth Horses   *
Officials have quarantined 57 horses that competed at the Meadowlands Racetrack on Monday (Nov. 6) over fears that the animals may have been exposed to the potentially dangerous equine herpesvirus. The step was taken after officials realized that four horses trained by Mary Hartmann at Monmouth Park and taken to the Meadowlands for Monday's race ... Read full story
 11/9/2006
EHV-1 Outbreak Occurs Despite Rigorous Control Efforts at Colorado State   *
This fall, equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) spread among patients in the veterinary hospital at Colorado State University (CSU), despite the fact the school runs one of the nation's top veterinary biosecurity programs. The finding forced 20 hospitalized horses into a quarantine, which is expected to be lifted Nov. 17. The outbreak apparently began after ... Read full story
 11/9/2006
Colorado State Veterinary Teaching Hospital Implements Precautionary Suspension of Elective Equine Admissions  *
Effective Oct. 31, elective equine admissions at the James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital at Colorado State University were temporarily suspended as a precautionary measure to control risks related to equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). The suspension is in response to the late evening confirmation of EHV-1 affecting two horses at the hospital that ... Read full story
 11/8/2006
New Jersey Quarantines Clinic After EHV Positive  *
The New Jersey Department of Agriculture's Division of Animal Health has issued a quarantine at the Mid-Atlantic Veterinary Clinic in Ringoes, Hunterdon County, after a horse recovering from surgery there tested positive for the equine herpes virus. The horse, which had been at Monmouth Park before a quarantine was established at the track on Oct. ... Read full story
 11/6/2006
Philly Park Horse Tested for Equine Herpesvirus   *
Philadelphia Park officials were cautiously optimistic a horse from the barn of Ramon Martin does not have equine herpesvirus despite having been exposed to the virus at an equine clinic in New Jersey. "The horse isn't exhibiting any signs that it may have EHV-1, but a nasal swab and blood samples were taken (Nov. 2) to make sure," Philly Park director ... Read full story
 11/3/2006
Jersey Meet to Continue; Other Tracks Ban Shippers   *
Despite having to limit fields to horses stabled only at Monmouth Park due to four confirmed cases of the equine herpesvirus and a subsequent decline in total handle, New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority officials are planning to finish the meet at Meadowlands on Nov. 11 as scheduled. Meanwhile, on Oct. 27, two Pennsylvania racetracks announced ... Read full story
 10/27/2006
New Jersey Imposes Quarantine on More Than 1,000 Monmouth Park Horses   *
The New Jersey Department of Agriculture issued a quarantine Oct. 26 on more than 1,000 horses at Monmouth Park in the wake of positive test results on at least one horse for the neuropathogenic strain of the equine herpes virus. At least four horses have been tested over the past several days after they began exhibiting fevers. Those four, and other ... Read full story
 10/27/2006
N.J. Track's Caution is Judicious and Smart, Says Vet Expert   *
Little information will be available on the status of five horses that developed fevers at Monmouth Park racetrack in New Jersey until tests are returned on nasal swabs from the animals. The horses reportedly have not shown any neurologic signs. In the meantime, racing jurisdictions have been vigilant about restricting shipments of animals from and ... Read full story
 10/25/2006
Four Monmouth Horses Test Positive for Herpesvirus  *
Four Monmouth Park-based horses with fevers have tested positive for the respiratory version of equine herpesvirus, according to results received this afternoon (Oct. 25). The barn housing the horses in the Monmouth Park stable area has been under quarantine since Sunday morning when when a quintet of horses spiked fevers. "We are having 11 horses ... Read full story
 10/25/2006
Equine Herpes Scare Forces Ban on Shipping  *
A possible case of equine herpes at Monmouth Park has led New Jersey sports officials to ban the shipment of thoroughbred horses out of the state. Horses stabled at Monmouth Park still will be allowed to race at the Meadowlands for the current Thoroughbred meet, but then would have to be shipped back to Monmouth and remain there for 12 days, which ... Read full story
 10/24/2006
Possible EHV-1 Cases Have Tracks On-Guard  *
The racing industry is safeguarding against equine herpesvirus-1 in light of a possible equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) outbreak at Monmouth Park in Oceanport, N.J., where several horses have developed fevers and are being tested for the illness. New Jersey Sports & Exposition Authority's (NJSEA) track officials, who oversee Monmouth and Meadowlands ... Read full story
 10/23/2006
Possible Virus Has Mid-Atlantic Tracks Taking Action   *
Philadelphia Park, Penn National Race Course, and Delaware Park have closed their stable gates to horses stabled at Monmouth Park, based on information that several horses at the New Jersey racetrack have exhibited signs of the equine herpesvirus. "From what we know, several horses at Monmouth developed fevers and are being tested for EHV-1," said ... Read full story
 10/23/2006
Internal Insights  *
Veterinary internal medicine is a growing specialty that boasts nearly 400 large animal internal medicine specialists, many of them focusing on horses. In a time when humans seek out experts in varying medical fields, it's only logical that we seek the same for our animals. Diplomates of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) ... Read full story
 10/1/2006
Special Reports
Our Special Reports are PDF files (including images and in some cases video) on many aspects of horse health care. We hope you enjoy these educational articles! NEW! Breathing, Stride, and Jumping Performance (Sponsored by FLAIR Nasal Strips) 2008 American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention Coverage (Sponsored by Arenus) February ... Read full story
 8/24/2006
Neurologic Herpes 24-Hour Test  *
A rapid (24-hour) test is now available to identify neuropathic strains of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). This means in the event of an outbreak of herpesvirus, or if a horse has neurologic signs of undetermined origin, a veterinarian can take a blood sample or nasal swab and know by the next day whether the horse tests positive for neuropathic EHV-1. ... Read full story
 6/27/2006
Downloadable Equine Herpesvirus Special Report
Read or download five new articles on equine herpesvirus in The Horse's Equine Herpesvirus Special Report sponsored by Pfizer Animal Health. These are PDF files you can download separately or as one file at no charge. We hope you enjoy these educational articles. Sponsored by Pfizer Animal Health. Herpes by the Numbers (3 pages, 316 KB) Neurologic ... Read full story
 6/1/2006
Veterinary Education Abroad  *
Owning horses is, by default, continuing education. Veterinarians are required to receive a certain number of hours of continuing education to maintain their licenses. Many practitioners take training above and beyond what is required by law simply because they want to learn, and because there are so many new developments in various areas of equine ... Read full story
 6/1/2006
West Virginia Tracks Lift Embargo on Horses from Ohio Farm  *
A horse that had displayed clinical signs of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) was negative for the virus according to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests for the disease. This resulted in the lifting of an embargo imposed by the West Virginia Racing Commission on the Ohio farm where the horse was kept. Officials at Mountaineer Park and Charles Town ... Read full story
 5/17/2006
West Virginia Tracks Issue Embargo on Horses from Ohio Farm  *
A suspected case of neurologic equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) has led two West Virginia racetracks to issue an embargo on any horses from a horse farm in Ohio. According to the Wheeling (West Virginia) Intelligencer, officials at Mountaineer Park and Charles Town Races issued the embargo on horses from the Lonnie Stokes farm near Carrollton, Ohio, after ... Read full story
 5/15/2006
Herpesvirus Situation Ends in Maryland   *
Equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) outbreaks in Maryland drew to a close on March 8, after the Maryland Department of Agriculture lifted hold orders on the detention barn at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore and an isolation barn at the Bowie Training Center in Bowie. The final four horses in those barns tested negative for EHV-1 and were permitted to resume ... Read full story
 5/1/2006
Decreasing Risk--Utilizing Industry-Based Standards of Care  *
Adverse animal health events do not occur randomly. Usually, there are identifiable causal--and possibly preventable--factors that can influence the development of disease. Depending upon whether the risk factors are already known or identified subsequent to a disease event, the management of a disease becomes basically one of either prevention or ... Read full story
 4/12/2006
Commentary on Equine Herpesvirus  *
The recent outbreaks of paralytic equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) infection at racetracks and training centers in Kentucky, Maryland, and Pennsylvania have illustrated the benefits of combining the old with the new. The old is the regular, twice-daily recording of a horse's temperature to determine if it is febrile and incubating an infection. The ... Read full story
 4/11/2006
Worldwide Disease Outbreaks  *
The International Collating Centre, Newmarket, England, and other sources reported the following disease outbreaks during the fourth quarter 2005. Cases of abortion caused by equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) were reported from New South Wales, Australia, Ireland, and the United Kingdom, with sporadic cases reported from Argentina, France, Japan, and South ... Read full story
 4/11/2006
New Product Reduces Clinical Signs of Herpes   *
Pfizer Animal Health on Feb. 8 announced the release of Zylexis in the United States, which according to the company's research prepares the horse's immune system to function more efficiently against equine herpesvirus-1 and -4 (EHV-1 and EHV-4) pathogens. The immunomodulator is offered specifically as an aid in reducing upper respiratory disease caused ... Read full story
 4/1/2006
Kentucky Rescinds Maryland EHV Restrictions  *
On March 31, one week before Keeneland's spring race meet is set to begin, State Veterinarian Robert Stout, DVM, lifted restrictions for all Maryland horses entering Kentucky racetracks based on information provided by the Maryland Department of Agriculture, the Maryland Racing Commission, and racetrack practitioners within the state. Entrance restrictions ... Read full story
 4/1/2006
Neurologic Case Shows Difficulty of Rule-Outs   *
A 24-year-old pleasure mare in Brunswick, Ga., has been diagnosed with concurrent infections of equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM) and equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1). Both can cause neurologic disease. This case highlights the complexity of pinpointing neurologic illnesses, which can range from Eastern equine encephalitis to West Nile virus. ... Read full story
 4/1/2006
Final Kentucky Track Quarantine Ends   *
Equine herpesvirus quarantines at two Kentucky Thoroughbred facilities have been released, ending the recent outbreak of the neurologic disease. Robert Stout, DVM, Kentucky state veterinarian, lifted the quarantine at Turfway Park in Florence on Feb. 2, and removed the quarantine at the Western Kentucky Training Center in Henderson on Feb. 3. Officials ... Read full story
 4/1/2006
NYRA to Accept Maryland Shippers March 18  *
(Edited press release) The New York Racing Association will allow horses to ship into its racetracks--Aqueduct, Belmont Park, and Saratoga--from Maryland beginning March 18, providing those horses meet certain requirements.NYRA had banned horses from shipping in from Laurel, Pimlico, and Bowie because of reported cases of equine herpesvirus-1. Maryland ... Read full story
 3/11/2006
Kentucky Updates Restrictions on Maryland Horses  *
(Edited press release) Officials from the Kentucky's Office of the State Veterinarian announced Thursday (March 9) that they have removed restrictions on horses originating from Chevation II, a barn at Fair Hills Training Center in Maryland that had logged cases of equine herpesvirus-1. All horses in that barn have tested negative for EHV-1 using ... Read full story
 3/11/2006
Remaining EHV-1 Quarantines Lifted at Pimlico and Bowie  *
The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) has lifted hold orders on the detention barn at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore and a barn at the Bowie Training Center in Bowie after the final four horses in those barns tested negative for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) on nested polymerase chain reaction tests. "These negative tests bring this EHV-1 outbreak ... Read full story
 3/8/2006
Hold Order Lifted on Kent County Farm  *
Seventeen horses on a Kent County, Md., farm tested negative for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) on March 3, resulting in the March 4 removal of a Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) hold order that had prevented equine transport to and from the facility. The hold order was enacted on Jan. 26, when the first of two horses at the farm were euthanatized ... Read full story
 3/6/2006
Maryland Veterinarians Must Report Neurologic Cases  *
The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) has added equine neurologic syndrome to its list of infectious livestock or poultry diseases that must be reported to MDA officials. Under Maryland law (Agriculture Article, Section 3-105 Annotated Code of Maryland), veterinarians are required to report immediately to the secretary of agriculture (in practice, ... Read full story
 3/6/2006
Hold Order Lifted at Laurel Park  *
(edited press release) The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) released its hold order on Laurel Park's Barn 9 on Friday, March 3, which means 34 horses that tested negative for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) at the Laurel, Md., facility were permitted to return to their normal training and racing activities. Two additional horses in the barn that ... Read full story
 3/6/2006
Maryland EHV-1 Outbreaks Winding Down  *
Veterinarians suspect the recent deadly outbreaks of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) in Maryland have subsided. The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) reported EHV-1 outbreaks at two Maryland tracks, a race training facility, and a private sport horse boarding farm in Kent County. The last new neurologic sign of the disease in the state was detected ... Read full story
 3/2/2006
Equine Herpesvirus Test Pending on Philly Park Horse  *
Officials at Philadelphia Park are awaiting test results from a horse that was euthanatized Feb. 23 to determine whether it had equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). Kari Oakie, a 3-year-old Thoroughbred filly trained by Armand Correnti, fell during training hours at Philly Park and was euthanatized with a suspected spinal cord injury. Before she was euthanatized, ... Read full story
 3/2/2006
Paralyzed With Fear   *
There have been numerous outbreaks of the deadly neurologic form of equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) recently. There seems to be no rhyme or reason, and nothing that indicates it springs from a single focal point and has spread, like West Nile virus did. A few cases here, a single horse there, an outbreak at a racetrack or barn. It's scary. Herpesviruses ... Read full story
 3/1/2006
Herpesvirus in Five States   *
T he neurologic form of equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) has been diagnosed in at least five different states in January and February (The Horse learned of a fifth state with herpes after the cover went to press). While many of the cases were detected at racetracks, it is important to note that this not a disease limited to the racing industry--any ... Read full story
 3/1/2006
Q&A Neurologic Equine Herpesvirus   *
The University of Kentucky's Gluck Equine Research Center has the only Office International des Epizooties (OIE, or World Organization for Animal Health) reference laboratory for equine herpesvirus in the Western hemisphere. Samples from most of the outbreaks are sent there so George Allen, PhD, professor in the department of veterinary science and ... Read full story
 3/1/2006
Wisconsin Barn Quarantined; One Neurologic EHV-1 Case Confirmed  *
The Hoofer Equestrian Center (HEC) at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, voluntarily quarantined its lower barn on Feb. 8, after two horses housed at the facility showed neurologic signs of equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1). Both horses were later euthanatized and one tested positive for EHV-1. One other horse housed in the same barn also showed ... Read full story
 2/24/2006
Georgia Neurologic Case Highlights Difficulty of Rule-Outs  *
A 24-year-old pleasure mare in Brunswick, Ga., was recently diagnosed with concurrent infections of equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM) and equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1), both of which can cause clinical signs of neurologic disease. The mare's treating veterinarians have said the neurologic deficits the mare has shown are likely caused by ... Read full story
 2/23/2006
Suspected Neurologic Herpes Case in Wisconsin  *
The University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine has very strong evidence that a horse treated and euthanatized at the university had the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1), according to a Feb. 14 memo that Benjamin J. Darien, DVM, associate professor in the veterinary school, sent to members of the Wisconsin Veterinary ... Read full story
 2/20/2006
AAEP Convention 2005: Infectious Neurologic Disease  *
Sometimes subtle and often dramatic, infectious neurologic disease cases are things veterinarians never want to see, although most would like to understand them better and more easily recognize them when they appear in clients' horses. From rabies to West Nile virus (WNV), these diseases garnered their own table topic discussion at the 2005 American ... Read full story
 2/17/2006
Horse at Fair Hill Training Center Positive for EHV-1  *
Maryland officials reported today (Feb. 15) that a horse which tested positive for equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) at Fair Hill Training Center in Cecil County, Md., last week, has recovered from its fever and has shown no signs of neurologic illness. Test results on samples taken on Monday from horses that share a barn with the infected horse should ... Read full story
 2/15/2006
Kentucky Equine Restrictions - EHV Affected Areas  *
While we are confident that the situation at both Turfway Park and the Western Kentucky Training Center have been satisfactorily resolved; we remain concerned over the apparent spread of equine herpes virus from Pimlico to other racetracks, training facilities and private farms in the Northeastern United States. With these concerns, Kentucky's State ... Read full story
 2/10/2006
New Product Reduces Herpesvirus Clinical Signs  *
Pfizer Animal Health on Feb. 8 announced the release of Zylexis, which according to the company's research prepares the horse's immune system to function more efficiently against equine herpesvirus (EHV) types-1 and -4 pathogens. The immunomodulator is offered specifically as an aid in reducing upper respiratory disease caused by these viruses. Zylexis ... Read full story
 2/8/2006
Final Kentucky Racetrack Released From Quarantine  *
Equine herpesvirus quarantines at two Kentucky Thoroughbred facilities were released, ending the recent outbreak of the neurologic disease. Robert Stout, DVM, Kentucky state veterinarian, lifted the quarantine at Turfway Park in Florence on Feb. 2, and removed the quarantine at the Western Kentucky Training Center in Henderson on Feb. 3. The tracks ... Read full story
 2/8/2006
Michigan Veterinarian Describes Neurologic Herpes Case  *
A 3-year-old Standardbred mare suffering from signs of neurologic disease tested positive for equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) and was euthanatized at the Allegan County Fairgrounds in Allegan, Mich., on Jan. 18. The horse had been shipped in from Canada to train at the harness racing training facility. Two of the fairgrounds' barns were quarantined ... Read full story
 2/8/2006
Pimlico Quarantine Lifted   *
The Maryland Jockey Club (MJC) lifted its self-imposed quarantine on Pimlico Race Course this morning (Feb. 8), allowing horses from the Baltimore track to compete at Laurel Park in Laurel, Md., for the first time since Jan. 21. Twelve Pimlico-based horses ran on today's card at Laurel,and five of the nine races featured Pimlico horses. The MJC quarantined ... Read full story
 2/8/2006
Second Neurologic Horse Euthanatized on Maryland Farm   *
A competitive event horse that began showing neurologic signs of equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) last Thursday (Feb. 2) was euthanatized on Sunday (Feb. 5) after a rapid decline in health. The mare is the second horse to be euthanatized on the private Kent County farm that received a horse from Pimlico Race Course on Jan. 10 before track officials ... Read full story
 2/8/2006
Maryland Officials Distribute Biosecurity Information for Stable Operators  *
The Maryland Department of Agriculture released the following tips on avoiding transmission of illness. Keep your stable disease-free: Limit traffic of incoming people who could have been exposed to germs elsewhere. Have visitors and employees follow the disinfection procedures listed below. Newly acquired animals should be isolated for at ... Read full story
 2/8/2006
Maryland Trainers Holding Their Breath  *
For more than a week, Maryland Jockey Club (MJC) chief operating officer Lou Raffetto said he could "see the light at the end of the tunnel" regarding the ongoing battle with equine herpesvirus. There was some light Feb. 3, when Laurel Park began accepting horses from previously quarantined Pimlico Race Course, and Feb. 5, when a "hold order" was ... Read full story
 2/7/2006
Can Immunomodulators Help Herpesvirus Victims?   *
Human and animal scientists have been researching ways to stimulate the immune system in order to prevent or mitigate disease, especially just prior to or during stressful events. Options include vaccination, antimicrobial therapy, and immunomodulation (altering the immune system). Just prior to the annual convention of the 2005 American Association ... Read full story
 2/1/2006
Five Horses Test Positive for Equine Herpesvirus   *
As 2005 neared its end, equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) killed two horses that were stabled at Turfway Park, a Northern Kentucky racetrack. The victims--one Thoroughbred in training and a lead pony--were euthanatized after they developed the neurologic form of the disease. The Kentucky state veterinarian's office said as of Jan. 2, five horses in ... Read full story
 2/1/2006
Veterinarian Suggests Owners Implement EHV-1 Preventive Measures  *
In light of the current equine herpesvirus type-1 neurologic outbreaks, Rob Holland, DVM, senior veterinarian at Pfizer Animal Health, has suggested that owners take steps to prevent EHV-1 infection in their horses. "Other than supportive therapies to reduce symptoms such as fever, there is no effective treatment once a horse has been infected with ... Read full story
 2/1/2006
Cornell Researcher Warns About Herpesvirus   *
Klaus Osterrieder, DVM, DVM Habilitation (German equivalent to a PhD), an associate professor of virology at Cornell University in Ithaca, N.Y., studies equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1). He shared his views with The Horse on recent EHV-1 problems. "The first and foremost thing to understand is that herpesvirus infections don't go away," he explained. ... Read full story
 2/1/2006
Second Laurel Park Horse Tests Positive For Equine Herpes  *
The Maryland Department of Agriculture confirmed today that a second horse, Hey Ralphy, a filly trained by Rodney Jenkins at Laurel Park, was infected with equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1). The 3-year-old was euthanatized on Jan. 26 with a suspected pelvic injury. A hold order has been placed on Barn 9 at the central Maryland track. Jenkins has elected ... Read full story
 1/31/2006
Pimlico Considers Lifting Quarantine Feb. 4; Stakes Could Be Rescheduled   *
Maryland Jockey Club (MJC) officials are hopeful they will be able to lift the equine herpesvirus quarantine at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore on Feb. 4, MJC chief operating officer Lou Raffetto said at a news conference at Laurel Park on Jan. 27. Raffetto placed the quarantine on the track Jan. 21. In addition to lifting the quarantine, Raffetto ... Read full story
 1/30/2006
Herpesvirus Detected at Laurel Park   *
Equine herpesvirus has been confirmed in a horse stabled at Laurel Park in Laurel, Md., says an Associated Press story on www.bloodhorse.com (http://news.bloodhorse.com/viewstory.asp?id=31893). The disease has led to the euthanasia of two horses at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Md., and a full quarantine of that track, which is about 25 miles ... Read full story
 1/25/2006
Restrictions Lifted on Most Lead Ponies, Outrider Horses at Turfway Park  *
All but one of the workhorses quarantined at Turfway Park have been cleared to return to the track on Tuesday (Jan. 24) after testing negative for equine herpesvirus. Robert Stout, DVM, Kentucky state veterinarian, rescinded the restrictions on all but one of the 32 lead ponies and outrider horses. Testing found that the animals showed no signs of ... Read full story
 1/24/2006
Trainers Worry Pimlico Quarantine is Too Late  *
The Maryland Jockey Club (MJC) has stepped up its fight against the equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) with a quarantine of the entire Pimlico Race Course stable area, but some trainers worry the move may have come too late. "I don't know how much relief I feel," said Laurel-based trainer Dale Capuano. "My thought is, 'It's about time.'" EHV-1 first ... Read full story
 1/23/2006
Herpesvirus Causes Maryland Jockey Club Quarantine of Pimlico Race Course  *
The Maryland Jockey Club (MJC) placed a quarantine on Pimlico Race Course effective after racing ended on Jan. 21 until further notice because of the neurologic equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) situation at the Baltimore track. Since the new year, 11 horses have shown clinical signs of the virus, causing the Maryland Department of Agriculture to ... Read full story
 1/23/2006
EHV Spreads in Northeast; Penn National Horse Tests Positive  *
In the wake of a horse being diagnosed with equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) at Penn National Race Course on Friday (Jan. 20), Philadelphia Park has banned shippers from that oval, effective immediately. Shippers from Maryland, including the Bowie Training Center, are also prohibited. "We don't have any problems right now, and we'd like to keep ... Read full story
 1/21/2006
Turfway Park's Barn 26 Released from Quarantine  *
The 48 horses stabled in Barn 26 at Turfway Park in Boone County, Ky., were released Jan. 19 from quarantine. Horses in Barns 26 and 27 were quarantined following a Dec. 21, 2005, outbreak of equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) at the track, according to Rusty Ford of the Kentucky state veterinarian's office. He said horses in Barn 26 were released from ... Read full story
 1/20/2006
Third Pimlico Barn Isolated Due to Suspect Herpes Case   *
The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) placed an "Investigational Animal Hold Order" on Barn A at Pimlico Race Course today (Jan. 19) after a horse showed signs of equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) this morning. Barns 5 and 6 at the historic Baltimore track are also under a hold order. The latest hold order affects horses trained by Joseph Delozier, ... Read full story
 1/19/2006
Second Horse Euthanatized at Pimlico Suspected of Having EHV-1  *
Officials at Pimlico Racecourse announced Friday (Jan. 13) that a second horse euthanatized at the Maryland track is suspected to have had equine herpesvirus-1. As a result, the Maryland Department of Agriculture has placed a "hold order" on Barn 6, where the horse was stabled. According to a statement from the Maryland Jockey Club, the horse was ... Read full story
 1/14/2006
Cornell Researcher Answers More Questions on Herpesvirus  *
The Horse continues to discuss equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) with scientists who have been researching the disease. Klaus Osterrieder, DVM, DVM Habilitation (German equivalent to a PhD), is associate professor of virology in the College of Veterinary Medicine at Cornell University in Ithaca, N.Y. He shared his views on the current situation with ... Read full story
 1/12/2006
Other States Act to Combat Spread of Virus  *
As surrounding states took steps to protect their racetracks from Maryland horses that could be carriers of the equine herpesvirus, Maryland Jockey Club racing secretary Georganne Hale was looking for positives anywhere she could find them. "This thing has everyone scared," Hale said Jan. 10 after a morning meeting at which state officials confirmed ... Read full story
 1/11/2006
Neurologic Equine Herpesvirus Q&A  *
It isn't just our imagination--we have been hearing about more neurologic equine herpesvirus outbreaks in the past several years than we were aware of previously. The current outbreaks in Kentucky and Maryland bring the disease back to the forefront, and there are many questions that horse owners, trainers, and even veterinarians have about the illness ... Read full story
 1/11/2006
Trainer Says Pimlico Horse Had Equine Herpesvirus  *
Trainer Charles Frock said Monday night, Jan. 9, his horse News Reporter, a 5-year-old Thoroughbred gelding that was euthanatized Jan. 2 at Pimlico Race Course, had equine herpesvirus. "A state (Maryland Department of Agriculture) official said my horse had a very high A and B bloodcount of 2,500 that indicated he definitely had the herpes virus," ... Read full story
 1/10/2006
Update on Turfway Herpesvirus Quarantine  *
Turfway Park officials, representatives from the Kentucky Department of Agriculture, and the Kentucky Horse Racing Authority (KHRA) veterinarian, met this afternoon (Jan. 10) at Turfway to update the current status of equine herpes (EHV-1) at the northern Kentucky racetrack. Barns 26 and 27 remain quarantined. Horses in those two barns continue to ... Read full story
 1/10/2006
Pimlico Equine Herpesvirus Update  *
The Maryland Department of Agriculture confirmed today that the preliminary lab report on News Reporter proved the 5-year-old Thoroughbred gelding was infected with equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1). The Charles Frock trainee was euthanatized on Jan 2. Equine herpesvirus type-1 (also known as "rhino"), which causes upper respiratory infection, can ... Read full story
 1/10/2006
Second Barn Quarantined at Turfway Because of Virus  *
A second barn at Turfway Park has been quarantined because of equine herpesvirus, which was first discovered at the Northern Kentucky racetrack the week before Christmas. One horse in Barn 27 has tested positive for the virus, Turfway president Bob Elliston said the evening of Jan. 6. Because of that, the barn, which houses 40-50 horses trained by ... Read full story
 1/7/2006
Five Horses Isolated at Pimlico Due to Suspected Herpes Case  *
A suspected case of equine herpesvirus has caused officials at Pimlico Race Course to isolate five horses in the detention barn and put a hold order on Barn 5 at the Baltimore, Md. track as a precautionary measure. The Maryland Department of Agriculture is awaiting test results to determine if a horse stabled in the barn, which was euthanatized earlier ... Read full story
 1/6/2006
New Insights into Equine Herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) Neurological Disease  *
This is an excerpt from Equine Disease Quarterly, funded by underwriters at Lloyd's, London, brokers, and their Kentucky agents. EQUINE DISEASE QUARTERLY Outbreaks of neurological disease caused by hypervirulent strains of EHV-1 have been reported with increasing and near-alarming frequency during the past several years (see the July 2003 ... Read full story
 1/5/2006
Herpesvirus Still Circulating At Turfway Park  *
Results received yesterday (Jan. 4) showed that three additional horses were positive for equine herpesvirus and two were "suspect" for the virus at barns quarantined at Turfway Park in northern Kentucky, according to Rusty Ford of the Kentucky state veterinarian's office. One positive horse is showing signs of viral infection. Ford said PCR assays ... Read full story
 1/5/2006
Additional Turfway Horse Dead  *
An outrider's horse at Turfway Park that had run a fever last week and tested positive on Dec. 29, 2005, for herpesvirus developed neurologic signs on Jan. 1, declined rapidly, and was euthanatized, according to Rusty Ford of the Kentucky State Veterinarian's office. As of yesterday evening (Jan. 2), no other lead ponies in the outriders' barn had ... Read full story
 1/3/2006
Turfway Park EHV-1 Summary 12/30/05  *
The Kentucky State Veterinarian's Office announced yesterday (Dec. 30) that while 11 horses from Turfway Park's Barn 26 that previously tested positive for equine herpesvirus now test negative, five horses still tested positive, and they quarantined seven horses in the outrider's barn last night. Barn 26 horses were sampled on Wednesday night.Included ... Read full story
 12/31/2005
Re-Testing At Turfway Tonight  *
Horses in Barn 26 at Turfway Park will be re-tested this evening for evidence of equine herpesvirus to determine if any other horses are positive for the virus, said Rusty Ford of the Kentucky State Veterinarian's office. Results are expected this weekend. One horse in that barn was euthanatized due to neurologic signs of equine herpesvirus, and another ... Read full story
 12/28/2005
Turfway Initiates Steps to Safeguard Against Spread of Equine Herpes  *
Barn 26, a 50-horse barn at Turfway Park, remains under quarantine after a 3-year-old filly who tested positive for the equine herpesvirus (EHV-1) was euthanized on Friday (Dec. 23). The Chuck Simon-trained filly, Coupe Aux Marrons, began exhibiting signs of the neurological disease last week and was shipped from Turfway to Hagyard Equine Medical Institute ... Read full story
 12/27/2005
Turfway Heightens Precautions After Filly Tests Positive  *
Turfway Park heightened precautionary measures Dec. 23 after a 3-year-old filly was diagnosed with equine herpesvirus, a contagious disease with respiratory and neurological signs. The filly, trained by Chuck Simon, was shipped Dec. 21 to Hagyard-Davidson-McGee in Lexington, where she was diagnosed with equine herpesvirus and subsequently euthanatized, ... Read full story
 12/24/2005
Turfway Barn Quarantined Pending Test Results  *
A barn at Turfway Park in Northern Kentucky was placed under quarantine Dec. 21 after a horse showed signs of suspected equine herpesvirus, a contagious upper respiratory and neurological disease. Test results were expected Dec. 23, at which time a decision will be made on whether to extend or end the quarantine. Horses in Barn 26 are not permitted ... Read full story
 12/22/2005
Helping Horses Worldwide  *
As a responsible horse owner, you make management decisions that affect the current well-being of your horse and his future vitality. You order low-dust bedding for your gelding with heaves. Your veterinarian arrives for her scheduled visit and you observe as she administers your mare's autumn vaccinations. You keep the new pony that shipped in yesterday ... Read full story
 11/1/2005
Hold Order Lifted at Maryland Horse Facility   *
After nearly three months of state-mandated quarantine for neurologic equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1), the Columbia Horse Center in Columbia, Md., was declared free of the disease on June 11. "The farm managers, private veterinarians, horse owners, and all other parties involved have done everything properly and with the utmost professionalism ... Read full story
 8/1/2005
Diary of an EHV-1 Survivor  *
Twenty-year-old Radar "just wasn’t looking right" when he came in from the pasture on April 6, recalls his owner, Bill McCarthy, PhD. "When I picked his feet up to pick them out, he would just fall into me," said McCarthy. "The next day the state came out and diagnosed him with the virus (equine herpesvirus type one, or EHV-1)." PHOTOS COURTESY ... Read full story
 7/13/2005
Herpesvirus Breakthrough   *
Preliminary research on equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) from Cornell University indicates that the commercial vaccine containing modified live virus (Rhinomune) appears to be more effective in preventing infection than killed vaccines, and offers some protection against the neurologic form of EHV-1. Klaus Osterrieder, DVM, DVM Habilitation (a German ... Read full story
 7/1/2005
EHV-1 Outbreak Confirmed at Churchill Downs   *
The neurologic form of equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) was confirmed as affecting horses at Churchill Downs in mid-May. Three barns remained under quarantine until horses in those barns met requirements by May 24 to begin training on the track during separate hours from the general horse population. Triple Crown horses that ran in the Preakness were ... Read full story
 7/1/2005
Update on Maryland EHV-1 Outbreak   *
As of May 26, there are no new clinical equine herpesvirus (EHV-1) cases among horses at the Columbia Horse Center in Maryland. The facility has been handling an outbreak of the neurologic form of the virus since late March. During the week of May 22, one horse that had been diagnosed with the virus more than a month prior had to be euthanatized. While ... Read full story
 7/1/2005
Hold Order Lifted at Maryland Horse Facility  *
On Saturday, June 11, at 3:30 p.m. the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) lifted the "Animal Hold Order" at the Columbia, Md. horse facility that has been handling a neurologic equine herpesvirus situation since late March. The lifting of the hold order allows the facility to resume normal business operations. "The farm managers, private veterinarians, ... Read full story
 6/15/2005
Equine Herpesvirus Suspected at Prairie Meadows  *
Horses in one barn at Prairie Meadows in Iowa have been quarantined due to a possible case of equine herpesvirus. The order to keep horses from entering or leaving the barn area came late in the afternoon of June 6 after Storm Wrangler showed symptoms of the respiratory virus, which resulted in the death of two horses at Churchill Downs this spring. Storm ... Read full story
 6/8/2005
Seven Churchill Horses Test Positive for EHV  *
Horses trained by Steve Asmussen will remain under quarantine in Barn 38 for at least a few more days. Seven horses in his barn still test positive for equine herpesvirus, although there are no new cases with clinical signs. The neurologic form of herpesvirus caused the deaths of two horses at Churchill this spring. Assistant Scott Blasi, who oversees ... Read full story
 6/6/2005
Equine Herpesviruses 1&4  *
Herpesvirus is a particularly well-evolved virus that occurs in many mammals, such as humans, horses, cats, and cows. Each strain tends to be species-specific, meaning that viruses infecting one animal species do not usually infect another species. In the world of microbes, viruses are specialized in their ability to infect and survive within a host. ... Read full story
 6/1/2005
Cornell Research on Herpesvirus Vaccines  *
A presentation on recent research into herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) vaccines was given by Klaus Osterrieder, DVM, DVM Habilitation (a German equivalent to a PhD), associate professor of virology in the College of Veterinary Medicine at Cornell the evening of March 26 in Lexington, Ky. His discussion was on EHV-1, Thoughts About the Virus, the Disease, ... Read full story
 5/27/2005
Additional Horse Succumbs to EHV-1 in Maryland  *
There are no new clinical equine herpesvirus (EHV-1) cases among horses at the Columbia, Md. horse facility that has been handling an outbreak of the neurologic form of the virus since late March. In the past week, one horse that had been diagnosed with the virus more than a month ago had to be euthanatized. While the mare had been responding well ... Read full story
 5/26/2005
Modified Live Herpesvirus Vaccine Shows Protective Qualities Against Neurologic Form  *
Preliminary research from Cornell University indicates that the commercial vaccine containing weakened live viruses (Rhinomune), called a modified live vaccine (MLV), appears to be more effective in preventing equine herpesvirus (EHV) than killed vaccines and offers protection against the neurologic form of EHV. Klaus Osterrieder, DVM, DVM Habilitation ... Read full story
 5/26/2005
Horses in Third Quarantined Barn Set to Return to Training Today at Churchill Downs  *
Horses stabled in the third Churchill Downs barn placed under quarantine by the Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA) because of confirmed cases of equine herpesvirus type-1 have been cleared to return to the track for limited training. Those horses will take part in special training hours beginning today. Horses in Barn 6, all of which are trained ... Read full story
 5/24/2005
Training Resumes at Churchill  *
Horses stabled in a second Churchill Downs barn placed under quarantine by the Kentucky Department of Agriculture because of confirmed cases of equine herpes virus at the track will be allowed to return to limited training on May 23. Horses in barn 38, all of which are trained by Steve Asmussen, are the latest to meet the requirements developed by ... Read full story
 5/23/2005
Churchill EHV-1 Update  *
Equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) has been confirmed as affecting horses at Churchill Downs. Three barns (6, 38, and 39) are currently quarantined on the backside of Churchill Downs. To date, a total of five animals have shown neurologic evidence of disease. One horse in each of two barns was euthanized after the animal's condition progressed to ... Read full story
 5/23/2005
Update on Maryland EHV-1 Situation  *
As of May 20, there were no new equine herpesvirus (EVH-1) cases at the Columbia, Md. horse facility that has been handling a number of cases of the neurologic form of the virus since late March. Private veterinarians, Maryland state animal health officials, and farm operators continue to work together to bring a close to the situation. "We are hopeful ... Read full story
 5/23/2005
Preakness Runners Not Affected by Churchill EHV Quarantine  *
Churchill Downs and Kentucky veterinary officials are segregating horses because of a possible outbreak of an equine respiratory virus in three barns, but no horses entered in Saturday's Preakness Stakes (gr. I) are affected. Rusty Ford of the Kentucky State Veterinarian's Office told The Blood-Horse Tuesday night an "indication" of equine herpesvirus ... Read full story
 5/18/2005
Update on Churchill Downs Horses  *
Necropsies from the two horses affected by neurologic signs at Churchill Downs showed the horses had lesions consistent with equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (damage to the brain and/or spinal cord). Three other horses are currently showing neurologic signs, according to Dr. Peter Timoney, head of the University of Kentucky’s Gluck Equine Research ... Read full story
 5/18/2005
Three Barns Quarantined for EHV at Churchill Downs  *
The Blood-Horse and The Horse have learned that three barns at Churchill Downs have been put under quarantine because of a possible outbreak of an equine viral respiratory disease. Rusty Ford of the Kentucky State Veterinarian's Office confirmed Tuesday night an "indication" of equine herpesvirus as the reason for the quarantine and said he was awaiting ... Read full story
 5/17/2005
Maryland EHV-1 Update  *
Facility managers who are handling a neurologic equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) or "rhino" incident at a Columbia, Md. horse stable reported May 7 that one additional horse had to be euthanized. The horse had exhibited a low-grade fever and was responding well to treatment until late last night when he developed neurologic signs. Private veterinarians, ... Read full story
 5/7/2005
Maryland Horses Succumb to Neurologic EHV-1   *
Three horses were euthanatized due to severe neurologic signs caused by equine herpesvirus type-1 at the Columbia Horse Center in Columbia, Md., the week of March 21, according to the animals' attending vet. Two more horses at the facility developed signs of disease, but are recuperating well, he added. A quarantine and strict disinfection protocols ... Read full story
 5/1/2005
One Additional Horse Shows Neurologic Signs in Maryland EHV-1 Situation  *
(edited press release) During the week of April 11, one additional horse displayed acute neurologic signs consistent with the equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) disease situation at the Columbia Horse Center in Columbia, Md. The horse, which was euthanatized, was located in the same barn as the others. Diagnostic tests are underway to confirm cause ... Read full story
 4/18/2005
Additional Horse at Maryland Farm Shows Signs of EHV-1  *
(edited from press release) Facility managers who are handling a neurologic equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) incident at a Columbia, Md. horse stable (Columbia Horse Center, CHC; read archived stories) reported April 7 that an additional horse was showing clinical signs similar to those displayed by the five previously reported cases. Three of those ... Read full story
 4/8/2005
Equine Herpesvirus Type-1 Confirmed in Maryland  *
The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) received confirmation yesterday (April 5) that equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) was the cause of equine illness at the Columbia Horse Center in Columbia, Md. The virus, which causes upper respiratory infection, can also cause neurologic disease. Three horses experienced neurologic signs before their conditions ... Read full story
 4/6/2005
Neurologic Herpesvirus in Canada and Pennsylvania   *
The neurologic form of equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) has been detected in horses in two additional areas of North America--Nova Scotia, Canada, and Meadowlands, Pa. At least four affected horses were put down (three in Canada and one in Pennsylvania). A fourth case of EHV-1 was detected at Northville Downs in Northville, Mich., in February, but ... Read full story
 4/1/2005
Breaking News: Neurologic Herpesvirus Strain Mutation   *
New equine herpesvirus type-1 findings from a research collaboration between George Allen, PhD, professor in the Department of Veterinary Science at the University of Kentucky's Gluck Equine Research Center in Lexington, and Nicholas Davis-Poynter, PhD, head of equine infectious diseases at the Animal Health Trust in Newmarket, England, have been released. ... Read full story
 4/1/2005
Respiratory Disease Seminar   *
Influenza, equine herpesvirus, and strangles were highlighted by Bonnie Rush, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVIM, professor and section head of equine internal medicine at Kansas State University, at a Feb. 4 seminar sponsored by Fort Dodge Animal Health in Lexington, Ky. She emphasized the importance of vaccinating against these diseases according to the AAEP Vaccination ... Read full story
 4/1/2005
Neurologic EHV-1 in New York  *
Three horses have died or were euthanatized following infection with equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) at a boarding facility in Tioga County, N.Y. The first case was detected about two weeks ago, said officials at the New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets Clinical signs included fevers, respiratory signs (nasal discharge and increased ... Read full story
 3/25/2005
Neurologic Herpesvirus Strain Mutation  *
New equine herpesvirus type-1 findings from a research collaboration between George Allen, PhD, professor in the Department of Veterinary Science at the University of Kentucky's Gluck Equine Research Center in Lexington, and Nicholas Davis-Poynter, PhD, head of equine infectious diseases at the Animal Health Trust in Newmarket, England, have been released. ... Read full story
 3/2/2005
EHV-1 Cases in Eastern Canada  *
Three Standardbred racehorses in Nova Scotia have been euthanatized due to the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus type-1, and at least one other horse was suspected to have the illness. Two of the horses that were euthanatized and the suspected case were detected at the Truro Raceway in central Nova Scotia. The third horse that was euthanatized ... Read full story
 2/25/2005
Neurologic Equine Herpesvirus Case Euthanatized at Pennsylvania Harness Track  *
A Standardbred mare euthanatized last Friday (Feb. 18) at the Meadows racetrack in Meadowlands, Pa., had the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus type-1 infection, according to University of Pennsylvania veterinarians. The barn where the mare was stabled has been placed under quarantine and veterinarians and trainers are watching other horses at the ... Read full story
 2/23/2005
Equine Respiratory Diseases  *
Influenza, equine herpesvirus, and strangles were the diseases highlighted by Bonnie Rush, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVIM, professor and section head of equine internal medicine at Kansas State University, at a seminar on infectious respiratory diseases sponsored by Fort Dodge Animal Health in Lexington, Ky., on Feb. 4. Rush emphasized the importance of vaccinating ... Read full story
 2/21/2005
Michigan Officials Requiring EHV Vaccination  *
Officials from Michigan's Office of Racing Commissioner (ORC) are requiring all horses entering any of seven licensed pari-mutuel facilities in the state be vaccinated for equine herpesvirus (EHV), in an effort to keep the virus confined to Northville Downs, where it has been detected in four horses. Three of those horses had to be euthanatized because ... Read full story
 2/15/2005
Fourth Case of EHV-1 Detected at Michigan Track  *
Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA) director Dan Wyant today announced the confirmation of a fourth case of equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) at Northville Downs in Northville, Mich., and the subsequent cancellation of live racing cards through Feb. 14. Under joint authority of MDA and the Office of Racing Commissioner, all restricted areas of ... Read full story
 2/10/2005
Silent Cycling of EHV in Foals   *
Since 1997, a multivalent equine herpesvirus vaccine (EHV-1/EHV-4) has been available in Australia, but only in killed formulation. While this vaccine is considered safer for pregnant mares, it provides only short-term protection. Before the widespread use of this vaccine in Australia, some researchers had described the emergence of a "silent cycle" ... Read full story
 2/1/2005
EHV-1 Kills Two Michigan Racehorses   *
At least two horses at Northville Downs Standardbred racetrack in Northville, Mich., contracted equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) and were euthanatized in December. The first case was found Dec. 14, when a 6-year-old Standardbred gelding began exhibiting classic signs of the neurological form of EHV-1 myeloencephalopathy (EHM). After the horse was ... Read full story
 2/1/2005
Third Case of Equine Herpes Virus Confirmed at Northville Downs   *
Michigan Department of Agriculture Director Dan Wyant announced the confirmation of a third case of equine herpes virus type-1 (EHV-1) at Northville Downs in Northville, Mich., on Jan. 20. One barn at Northville Downs has been placed under quarantine while the source of infection and extent of spread is investigated by regulators. On Jan. 14, 2005, ... Read full story
 1/26/2005
EHV-1 Kills Two Michigan Racehorses  *
At least two horses at Northville Downs Standardbred racetrack in Northville, Mich., contracted equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) and were euthanatized. The first case was discovered Dec. 14, when a 6-year-old Standardbred gelding began exhibiting classic signs of the neurological form of herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) myeloencephalopathy (EHM). After ... Read full story
 12/28/2004
Vaccinating Strategically   *
Every spring, you ask your veterinarian to vaccinate your horse to protect her from disease while she's showing, racing, carrying a foal, or hanging around your pasture. But is this yearly routine the best way to confer immunity with the vaccines currently available? Hugh Townsend, BSc, DVM, MSc, a professor in the Department of Large Animal Clinical ... Read full story
 9/1/2004
Neurologic Herpesvirus Confirmed in Maryland   *
The neurologic form of equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) was confirmed as the cause of disease in two Maryland horses infected during a deadly disease outbreak this spring. Twelve horses exhibited signs of neurologic illness in the outbreak at a single Montgomery County farm; five of them died. While the virus has not been confirmed in the other 10 ... Read full story
 9/1/2004
Neurologic Herpesvirus Confirmed in Maryland Outbreak  *
The neurologic form of equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) has been confirmed as the cause of disease in two Maryland horses infected during a deadly disease outbreak this spring. Twelve horses exhibited signs of neurologic illness in the outbreak at a single Montgomery County farm, five of which died. While the virus has not been confirmed in the other ... Read full story
 7/9/2004
Maryland Farm Quarantine Lifted  *
The quarantine of a Poolesville, Md., farm was lifted June 22 after five weeks passed with no detection of additional cases of neurologic disease. On May 18, veterinarians confirmed the last new case of what could be the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1, or equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy), but it hasn't been confirmed as ... Read full story
 6/28/2004
Tests Inconclusive in Maryland Disease Outbreak  *
Investigators have been unable to make a conclusive diagnosis in the outbreak of equine neurologic disease on a single quarantined farm in Poolesville, Md. There is strong suspicion that equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) is to blame, but further diagnostic testing is under way to determine if this is the case. Twelve horses were affected in the outbreak, ... Read full story
 6/23/2004
Equine Disease--Fourth Quarter, 2003   *
From the April 2004 issue of Equine Disease Quarterly, funded by Lloyd's of London underwriters, brokers, and their Kentucky agents The International Collating Centre in Newmarket, England, and other sources reported the following disease outbreaks in the fourth quarter of 2003: Two cases of contagious equine metritis on separate premises were ... Read full story
 6/1/2004
Neurologic EHV-1 Case Confirmed at University of Wisconsin   *
The Hoofer Equestrian Center (HEC) at the University of Wisconsin, Madison (UWM), voluntarily quarantined its lower barn on Feb. 8 after two horses housed there showed neurologic signs of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). Both horses were later euthanatized and one tested positive for EHV-1. One other horse housed in the same barn showed signs of the respiratory ... Read full story
 4/1/2004
AAEP 2003: Neurologic In-Depth Session  *
With equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM), equine herpesvirus type-1 myeloencephalitis (EHV-1, more specifically EHM), and West Nile virus (WNV) on the radar of so many U.S. veterinarians, it only made sense to devote a four-hour segment of the 2003 American Association of Equine Practitioners' convention to neurologic disease and disorders. Assessing ... Read full story
 3/2/2004
AAEP Wrap-Up: Neurologic Disease/WNV  *
Subclinical Exposure Rate to WNV It's extremely important to vaccinate horses at least two months before the West Nile virus (WNV) season, according to Maureen Long, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, assistant professor of large animal veterinary medicine at the University of Florida. She presented rough data regarding 2001 Florida WNV exposure rates. "Little ... Read full story
 3/1/2004
AAEP 2003: Immune Responses to Commercial Equine Vaccines  *
"Infectious disease is common in horses; for this reason we use vaccination as an important component of our preventive strategy. Nevertheless, we're often left with a lack of studies and information that could be important (in decision-making regarding vaccination)," said Paul Lunn, BVSc, MS, PhD, head of the Department of Clinical Sciences at Colorado ... Read full story
 2/23/2004
AAEP 2003: Acyclovir for Treating EHV-1 Myeloencephalopathy  *
Equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) myeloencephalopathy (EHM) generated more interest on TheHorse.com in 2003 than any other infectious disease, due in part to several fatal outbreaks in the news. Many questions about treatment were raised during these outbreaks, so researchers stepped forward and looked into the efficacy of one prominent treatment that ... Read full story
 2/16/2004
Great Britain Revises Codes on Infectious Diseases  *
Britain's Horserace Betting Levy Board has extensively changed its codes of practice regarding the infectious diseases contagious equine metritis (CEM), equine herpesvirus (EHV), and equine viral arteritis (EVA), which can severely disrupt horse breeding. John Parker, chairman of the committee responsible for drawing up the codes, revealed on Dec. ... Read full story
 12/11/2003
Equine Herpesvirus-1 Outbreak in Oregon   *
Since Aug. 10, 16 horses at Brookhill Stables in Goble, Ore., and two horses from a nearby private farm have shown respiratory and/or neurologic signs consistent with equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1), although not all were tested for the disease. At press time, three older victims had been euthanized--one from Brookhill Stables and two horses which ... Read full story
 11/1/2003
Oregon Equine Herpesvirus-1 Outbreak  *
In the last month, 16 of the 19 horses at Brookhill Stables in Goble, Ore., and two horses from a nearby private farm, have showed respiratory and/or neurologic signs consistent with equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1), although not all have been tested for the disease. To date, three older victims have been euthanized--one from Brookhill Stables and ... Read full story
 9/19/2003
EHV Outbreak in England Unusual; Some Cases Could be EHV-4   *
"It's very unusual to get EHV-1 outbreaks all at the same time on different premises," said James Wood, BSc, BVetMed, MSc, PhD, MRCVS, DLSHTM, Dipl. ECVPH, head of epidemiology at the Animal Health Trust (AHT) in the United Kingdom, about the recent flare-up of neurologic equine herpesvirus-1 cases in his country. At least 12 U.K. horses have been ... Read full story
 6/1/2003
EHV-1 Confirmed at Kentucky Racetrack; Pennsylvania Track Lifts Quarantine  *
Equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) was confirmed as the cause of illness in three Thoroughbreds stabled in a training barn at Turfway Park in Florence, Ky. The March 18 announcement of this fact followed treatment of EHV-1 outbreaks in Ohio and Pennsylvania since January. (See article #32 online for more on EHV.) All three Kentucky horses had fevers, ... Read full story
 5/1/2003
EHV Outbreak in the U.K. Unusual; Asymptomatic Cases Could be EHV-4  *
“It’s very unusual to get EHV-1 outbreaks all at the same time on different premises,” said James Wood, BSc, BvetMed, MSc, PhD, MRCVS, DLSHTM, Dipl. ECVPH, Head of Epidemiology at the Animal Health Trust in the United Kingdom, about the recent flare of neurologic equine herpesvirus-1 cases in his country. At least 12 horses have been euthanized after ... Read full story
 4/18/2003
Details of the U.K. EHV-1 Outbreak  *
The United Kingdom’s Animal Health Trust (AHT) has detailed the country’s EHV-1 outbreak that began in early March. At least 12 horses have been euthanized due to advanced neurologic deterioration resulting from infection. The first reported cases were detected in Gloucestershire. Two Thoroughbreds showed neurologic signs on March 12-13. Both had ... Read full story
 4/15/2003
EHV-1 in the United Kingdom  *
Several regions of the United Kingdom have been fighting the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1). At least 12 horses have been euthanized due to advanced neurologic deterioration resulting from infection. According to the British Horse Society (BHS), there are currently no horse movement restrictions imposed by the United Kingdom’s ... Read full story
 4/14/2003
Quarantine Lifted on Turfway Park Horses  *
The Kentucky Department of Agriculture will release the quarantine placed on Barn 15 at Turfway Park as of 12:01 a.m. Saturday (April 5). The 80-horse barn was placed in quarantine after three horses tested positive for equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) on March 18. All restrictions regarding movement and segregated training hours will be lifted as ... Read full story
 4/4/2003
Keeneland Requiring Health Certificate for Horses  *
Keeneland, which opens for its spring meet April 4, is requiring all horses that enter the grounds to have a health certificate written within 72 hours of arrival. River Downs in Ohio implemented a similar policy in the wake of the detection of equineherpes virus at Turfway Park in mid-March. The virus was contained through quarantine procedures, ... Read full story
 4/2/2003
Herpesvirus Type 1 Hits Hard  *
Ohio and Pennsylvania have confirmed or reported cases of the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1, see Pennsylvania information on page 15). But the worst problems reported thus far have occurred in Ohio, where 12 horses died in an outbreak at the University of Findlay (see article #4127 at www.TheHorse.com) and three other Ohio horses ... Read full story
 4/1/2003
EHV-1 in Penn., Possible Iowa Cases   *
While Ohio veterinarians are busy fighting what seems to be an especially aggressive strain of equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1), two horses were euthanized due to illness from the virus at Penn National Race Course in Grantville, Penn., in an outbreak that appears to be a more typical, sporadic episode. Additionally, at least two Iowa horses have ... Read full story
 4/1/2003
EHV-1 Confirmed in Three Horses at Kentucky Racetrack  *
Equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) has been confirmed as the cause of illness in three Thoroughbreds that were stabled in a training barn at Turfway Park in Florence, Ky. Tuesday’s announcement follows treatment of several EHV-1 outbreaks in Ohio and Pennsylvania since January. The EHV-1 organism can cause three different forms of disease, including ... Read full story
 3/19/2003
Officials Explain Timing of Kentucky EHV-1 Announcement  *
Animal health officials today explained that the announcement about the equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) cases at Turfway Park in Florence, Ky., was not made sooner was because the virus wasn’t considered to be actively circulating in the environment until a third horse exhibited clinical signs and tested positive for the virus. A gelding and a filly ... Read full story
 3/19/2003
Kentucky Racetrack Announces Herpesvirus Cases  *
Three horses stabled at Turfway Park have been diagnosed with neurologic equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1). Verification of the virus was completed over the weekend at the northern Kentucky track by researchers at the Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center at the University of Kentucky in Lexington. All three horses have responded favorably to treatment. ... Read full story
 3/18/2003
Pennsylvania Tracks Prepare to Lift Shipping Ban  *
With no additional positive tests for Equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) since Feb. 26, Penn National Race Course was prepared to lift the quarantine of horses stabled in Barn U on March 19, according to track general manager Richard Schnaars. Of the original 36 horses stabled in Barn U, five tested positive for EHV-1. Two of the horses had to be euthanized, ... Read full story
 3/17/2003
Classes Resume at the University of Findlay's English Riding Facility  *
Classes resumed today at the the University of Findlay's James L. Child Jr. Equestrian Complex, which has been under quarantine since the weekend of Jan. 18 because of an outbreak of equine herpes virus type 1 (EHV-1). The University has followed the guidelines and advice of George Allen, PhD, of the Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center at the ... Read full story
 3/10/2003
Herpesvirus Hits Hard  *
(Updated 3/07/03) Ohio and Pennsylvania have confirmed or reported cases of the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus type 1. But the worst problems reported thus far have occurred in Ohio, where 12 horses died in an outbreak at the University of Findlay (see article #4127) and three other Ohio horses died from exposure to those initial cases. Tests ... Read full story
 3/7/2003
Herpesvirus Positives Keep Racetrack Shipping Ban in Place  *
Two additional positive tests for equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) virus Feb. 26 were reported at Penn National Race Course. That prompted Philadelphia Park Racetrack to extend its ban on shipping into and out of the Grantville, Penn., track to March 19. Racetracks in neighboring West Virginia have also decided to implement the shipping restriction ... Read full story
 3/5/2003
Ohio EHV-1 Outbreak; Strain Might Be Atypical   *
The worst is over in an equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) outbreak that thus far has caused the death of 12 horses, and scientists are still studying the virus to see if it is somehow different from the normal EHV-1 strain. The outbreak, which began Jan. 12, quarantined the entire equine population of 138 horses at the University of Findlay's English ... Read full story
 3/1/2003
Ohio State University Veterinary Hospital Management of Horses from University of Findlay EHV-1 Outbreak   *
Admission: Six horses were referred from the University of Findlay for emergency treatment. All horses had signs of neurological disease. One horse was dead on arrival on 19 January 03; this horse went directly to necropsy and was never admitted to the Hospital. Four horses were admitted 18-19 Jan 03. One horse was admitted 28 January 03. All horses ... Read full story
 2/28/2003
Equine Herpesvirus 1: Pathophysiology and Commonly Asked Questions  *
The following information was posted on The Ohio State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital's web site Feb. 26. The author, Catherine W. Kohn, VMD, Dipl. ACVIM, is professor of equine medicine and surgery at OSU. Typical Clinical Signs of EHV-1 Infection Upper respiratory infection is the most common manifestation of EHV-1 infection. Commonly, ... Read full story
 2/28/2003
Possible Equine Herpesvirus Type 1 Cases in Iowa  *
At least two Iowa horses have been euthanized after battling what officials believe might be the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1). According to Iowa State Veterinarian John Schiltz, DVM, officials know of only one premise possibly affected by the virus, where these two horses lived. "Some of the preliminary tests have come back ... Read full story
 2/26/2003
Equine Herpes Virus Type 1 Cases at Pennsylvania Racetrack Keeping Officials Cautious  *
A restriction on horses shipping between Philadelphia Park Racetrack and Penn National Race Course due to three horses testing positive for equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) at Penn National might be lifted early next week, officials for both Pennsylvania racetracks said Wednesday. "Although three horses from trainer Bob Wolfe did test positive, we ... Read full story
 2/26/2003
Localized Equine Herpesvirus Detected at Penn National Racecourse  *
A small outbreak of equine herpes at Penn National Racecourse has prompted management of Philadelphia Park to bar horses shipping in to race as well as horses shipping out to "race and return" from the Grantville, Pa. oval. Richard Schnaars, general manager of Penn National, stressed that the situation is "very localized," with only two horses from ... Read full story
 2/24/2003
OSU Equine Hospital Temporarily Closes for Cleaning and Disinfection; Three Horses Showed Neurologic Signs  *
The Equine Hospital at the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine has closed its doors to non-emergency horse admissions until Feb. 20, 2003. This action has been taken to allow disinfection of the hospital because of potential contamination by horses admitted January 18, 19, and 24, 2003 from an outbreak of equine herpes virus type 1 ... Read full story
 2/14/2003
Ohio EHV-1 Outbreak; One More Neurologic Horse  *
One more horse has shown neurologic signs of equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) in the outbreak which began Jan. 12 at the University of Findlay's English riding facility in Findlay, Ohio. Twelve horses have died during the outbreak, and at least 43 horses have exhibited neurological signs of the disease (including the 12 which died). The latest neurologic ... Read full story
 2/12/2003
Equine Herpesvirus Type 1 in Canada  *
On the heels of the deadly equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) outbreak in Ohio came a report of a private farm in Canada with several horses dead of the same cause. Scott Weese, DVM, DVSc, Dipl. ACVIM, assistant professor of clinical studies at the University of Guelph’s Ontario Veterinary College, said Canada has had at least one big EHV-1 outbreak ... Read full story
 2/5/2003
Ohio Equine Herpesvirus Type 1 Victims Recovering  *
The "miserable, tragic experience" of losing a dozen horses and fighting to save more than 100 others which became ill has devastated the University of Findlay. It will take weeks or months for the remaining 30 horses with neurologic signs of equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) to recover. The outbreak began on Jan. 12, and the losses were still occurring ... Read full story
 2/5/2003
Progression of the Ohio EHV-1 Outbreak  *
There were 138 horses stabled at the James L. Child Jr. Equestrian Complex when the equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) outbreak hit. Beginning Jan. 12, many horses began showing non-specific symptoms, including fever and depression. Some horses also exhibited mild nasal discharge and would not eat. Within 48-72 hours, approximately 85% of the horses ... Read full story
 2/5/2003
Ohio EHV-1 Update: Two More Deaths  *
Equine Herpesvirus type 1 has claimed the lives of two more horses in the outbreak at the University of Findlay in Findlay, Ohio, bringing the total number of fatalities to 12. The two horses had been down and in critical condition at The Ohio State University last week. University of Findlay officials sent the following update this afternoon (Feb. ... Read full story
 2/3/2003
No Live Foal Guarantees  *
Subconsciously, you've been holding your breath for months. From the moment your mare was confirmed in foal, it's been a tense waiting game. And although she will be foaling soon, you know a healthy foal is still anything but a given. Between breeding and her foaling date lurk a few dozen tragic ways in which she could lose her foal. Whether you call ... Read full story
 2/1/2003
Equine Herpesvirus Type-1 Outbreak Resolving; Strain Might be Atypical   *
The worst is over in the unusual equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) outbreak that led to the death of 10 horses and has affected the remaining equine population at the University of Findlay’s English riding facility in Findlay, Ohio, since Jan. 12. Veterinarians have not detected any new cases of the respiratory and neurological illness in the last ... Read full story
 1/29/2003
Ohio Disease Confirmed as Equine Herpesvirus Type-1  *
Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) officials have reported that equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) has been confirmed as the cause of the respiratory and neurologic illness that has plagued University of Findlay horses since Jan. 12. “Our laboratory test results substantiate the initial clinical diagnosis by veterinary experts a few days ago that ... Read full story
 1/24/2003
Care of Sick Horses in Ohio Outbreak   *
The battle against the paralyzing disease that hit the English riding facility at the University of Findlay in Findlay, Ohio was lost for 10 horses, but is still being waged for the 22 others which have been affected neurologically (see article #4079 at www.TheHorse.com). C. Michael Kerns, DVM, Director of University Equine Veterinary Services at the ... Read full story
 1/23/2003
Ten Ohio Horses Dead; Possible Equine Herpesvirus-1 Outbreak  *
At least 10 horses have died or have been euthanized at the University of Findlay (UF) in Findlay, Ohio, after battling a respiratory and neurologic illness. Preliminary polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests completed on tissue samples from affected horses by the Ohio Department of Agriculture’s (ODA) Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory this morning ... Read full story
 1/22/2003
Equine Herpes Outbreak in Australia   *
A mare (or mares) imported from North America to Victoria, Australia, is believed to be at the center of the latest outbreak of equine herpes virus (EHV-1), or equine rhinopneumonitis virus, in Australia. As the Australian Thoroughbred breeding season officially got under way on Sept. 1, at least a dozen farms were quarantined. Most are in Victoria, ... Read full story
 9/3/2002
Australian Shuttlers Released From Quarantine  *
In the wake of a positive West Nile Virus (WNV) test on a Canadian Standardbred horse, almost 50 Thoroughbred shuttle stallions were released from Australia's major quarantine station outside Sydney on the morning of Aug. 30. The decision for the release of Astreos and the other stallions came after a national teleconference the previous day. The ... Read full story
 8/30/2002
Equine Herpesvirus Myeloencephalopathy Confirmed in Virginia   *
Detection of a neurological illness in Virginia thought to be equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) myeloencephalopathy was recently confirmed as such at several laboratories throughout the United States. The organism causing EHV-1 can cause three different forms of the disease--rhinopneumonitis, a respiratory disease of mostly young horses; abortions in ... Read full story
 5/30/2002
Equine Herpesvirus Myeloencephalopathy in Virginia  *
Four cases of mysterious illness in Northern Virginia horses have been attributed to equine herpesvirus (EHV) myeloencephalopathy, a rare neurologic version of EHV type 1, which is typically recognized in its respiratory form as rhinopneumonitis. Three horses at Fox Chase Farm in Middleburg have been euthanized, and one pony is recovering at the farm ... Read full story
 5/8/2002
Wyoming Herpesvirus Outbreak   *
An equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) outbreak has affected nearly 50 horses and caused the deaths of seven horses in Wyoming. The outbreak occurred at Paradise Ranch in Johnson County near Buffalo. There are about 170 horses on the premises during the summer, says Jim Logan, DVM, Wyoming State Veterinarian. No one knows how the virus arrived, but ... Read full story
 11/1/2001
Vaccinations for Horses  *
Vaccines have been true godsends the world over. Diseases that once laid waste to large segments of the human population now are held in check by vaccines. One of those killing diseases, smallpox, has been eradicated. Much the same has happened in the equine population, although perhaps in less dramatic terms--that is until just recently. The current ... Read full story
 4/1/1999
A New Vaccine For Equine Herpesvirus On The Horizon   *
Equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) is the major cause worldwide of epidemic abortion in mares, along with neonatal deaths in foals, and also cause respiratory illness and nervous system disease. This virus, along with the closely related equine herpesvirus-4 (EHV-4) which causes respiratory illness in horses, has a considerable and adverse impact on the ... Read full story
 2/12/1999
Equine Respiratory Disease Part 2: The Lower Airway  *
The lower airway consists of the lungs and the air tubing (bronchi) that supplies them. The lungs have some very interesting and unique protective mechanisms that put forth a great effort to prevent infection. Obviously, the air we breathe is not sterile and contains many contaminants such as dirt, dust, pollen, chemicals, and particles of a million ... Read full story
 8/1/1998
Infectious Diseases in Horses  *
Viral infections of the equine respiratory tract are a veterinary challenge. They occur frequently and result in major economic loss to the horse industry. Currently available vaccines are not completely effective in controlling respiratory diseases, and the growth in international travel contributes to their spread. The most common and important ... Read full story
 6/1/1998
Equine Herpes Virus  *
The first thought that comes to most people when the word "herpes" is mentioned is one of those nagging pain-in-the-neck cold sores, one type of which is caused by a herpes virus, and the venereal disease "herpes simplex." The word "herpes" refers to a family of viruses that actually cause a variety of diseases in people and animals. Chickenpox in ... Read full story
 9/1/1997
Contagious Diseases  *
"A serious epidemic of a nature still unknown is going on in the region of two of our plantations. Area of Yambuku is declared highly dangerous. All movement in and out of Yambuku is forbidden. Burn all linen in contact with the sick. Do not cross this barrier or you will die." "The mission of Yambuku, with its schools, farms, and hospital, was still ... Read full story
 10/1/1996




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