The Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) is strongly recommending the cancellation of upcoming equine events in Idaho and a temporary stop to all equine movements following confirmed reports of Equine Herpesvirus Type 1 (EHV-1) linked to several recent equine competitive events in Texas and Oklahoma.
Idaho has no confirmed cases of EHV-1 at this time. Due to the highly contagious nature of the virus, the Idaho State Veterinarian urges horse owners, trainers and event organizers to take immediate biosecurity precautions and temporarily stop any transporting or hauling of equine to protect Idaho horses.
EHV-1, is a contagious and potentially deadly virus that affects horses, causing respiratory disease, abortions in pregnant mares and in severe cases, neurological disease. The virus spreads easily between horses through direct contact, airborne respiratory particles, or indirectly via contaminated equipment, clothing and other shared items.
Confirmed cases of neurologic EHV-1 in horses that attended the competitive events have been identified in Texas, Oklahoma and Louisiana. Any Idaho horse owners who attended the events or were in proximity to these events should contact the Idaho State Veterinarian immediately. Horses are recommended to quarantine for a period of 21 days and should be monitored carefully for any signs of illness.
Symptoms of EHV 1 may include:
- Fever
- Nasal discharge, coughing, or other respiratory signs
- Depression or lethargy
- Neurological changes, including stumbling, incoordination, loss of tail tone, urine dribbling, hind limb weakness, head tilt or recumbency
- Abortions in pregnant mares
Exposed horses may take up to 21 days to show symptoms and may shed the virus before illness becomes evident.
EHV-1 is highly contagious to horses, but can not infect humans.
Biosecurity recommendations can be found at agri.idaho.gov/EHV
Contact your veterinarian if your horse is showing symptoms.
For more information, contact ISDA Animal Industries at (208) 332-8540.
