Europe has recently experienced one of the worst outbreaks of equine herpes virus (EHV-1) in decades. The neurologic form of the disease has forced the cancellation of international competitions in 10 European countries, including France, Spain, Portugal, Belgium, Italy, Austria, Poland, the Netherlands, Germany and Slovakia. The cancellations remain in place until March 28.
The initial case of EHV-1 was confirmed at the CES Valencia Spring Tour showjumping competition; 83 of the 752 horses at the venue showed clinical signs and are currently being treated for the disease. Six horses have died. An additional 15 horses are being treated at off-site equine clinics.
All horses that had been in Valencia since Feb. 1 are blocked in the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) database. They cannot compete in any FEI-sanctioned event until they complete EHV-1 testing requirements. The FEI is the governing body for international equine competitions. The USDA's Veterinary Services Department has no current international movement restrictions in place.
In the United States, one 8-year-old mare in Ocala, Fla., was confirmed infected with EHV-1 on March 1 and placed in isolation. Florida Animal Health officials have implemented biosecurity protocols and are monitoring the situation. Horse owners and caretakers are reminded to take precautions before introducing new horses to an existing herd.
Read more at Horse & Hound.
The post EHV-1 Outbreak In Europe Improving; Now Found Stateside appeared first on Horse Racing News | Paulick Report.
