Two horses have been confirmed positive for a neurologic strain of equine herpesvirus (EHV) at FanDuel Racing (formerly Fairmount Park), according to an update provided to horsemen Dec. 6.
Trainers are encouraged to monitor horses for symptoms, which can include fever, ataxia, lethargy, or loss of coordination.
Horses will not be permitted to ship out of the facility for 21 days. The alert sent to horsemen provided no further information on the status of the infected horses or their origin.
There are nine strains of equine herpesvirus on record, and many horses are exposed to some form of EHV with no serious side effects or symptoms. Three strains are considered serious health risks, including EHV-1, which may present with fever and respiratory symptoms and can also carry neurological symptoms and a risk of death. Symptoms of the neurologic form of EHV-1 include fever and nasal discharge, followed by lack of coordination, lethargy, head tilt, and inability to balance or stand. EHV-1 is highly contagious and may be transmitted through contaminated equipment, contact between horses, and on clothing or hands of humans working with sick horses. Veterinarians aren't sure how long the virus can survive in the environment, or how well it travels through the air. The Paulick Report compiled a list of frequently-asked questions about EHV-1 during an outbreak at Sunland Park in 2016.
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