Equine Herpes Virus now detected in four Ore. horses
Four Oregon horses have now tested positive forEquine Herpes Virus (EHV-1), with two of the horses showing neurological symptoms, the Oregon Department of Agriculture reported Monday.
It was confirmed last weekthat a Marion Countyhorse had tested positive for EHV-1 and had developed neurological symptoms.
The second horse that developed neurological symptoms resided at astable in Polk County with about 40 other horses and was taken to the LargeAnimal Hospital at Oregon StateUniversity’s College of Veterinary Medicineover the weekend.
The Polk County stable has been placed under quarantine andthe remaining horses are being monitored by the stable manager and aveterinarian.
In addition to the PolkCounty stable, two Marion County farms remain under quarantine due to exposureto EHV-1. The infected horses and other horses exposed at the quarantinedfacilities attended an Oregon High School Equestrian Team (OHSET)meet at theLinn County Fairgrounds on April 16 -19. ODA is currently investigating thepotential of any additional exposures at this time. In addition, ODA is workingto notify owners of horses that have been potentially exposed and has notifiedOregon equineveterinarians.
EHV-1 is not transmissible topeople. The virus is naturally occurring and widespread in the equinepopulation. It is a common virus and may lie dormant for long periods of timeand then re-activate during a period of stress, which can result in clinicaldisease. EHV-1 can cause respiratory disease, abortions in pregnant mares,neurologic disease, and in severe cases, death. The most common way for EHV-1to spread is by direct horse-to-horse contact. The virus can also spreadthrough contaminatedequipment, clothing, and hands. Symptoms include fever,decreased coordination, nasal discharge, urine dribbling, loss of tail tone,hind limb weakness, leaning against a wall or fence to maintain balance,lethargy, and the inability to rise. While there is no cure,the symptoms ofthe disease may be treatable.
As a reminder, StateVeterinarian Dr. Brad LeaMaster advises horse owners to practice strictbiosecurity measures and hygiene if they travel to shows and competitions withtheir animals. Concerned owners should contact their veterinarian if they havequestions.
