Equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM), the neurologic disease linked to equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1), was confirmed in a Montgomery County, Texas, reining Quarter Horse on April 9, 2019.

The positive horse attended a reining event in Ardmore, Oklahoma, the week of March 18. TAHC staff has been in contact with the Oklahoma State Veterinarian to ensure event participants are notified and enhanced biosecurity measures are taken.

While the risk of exposure to the virus was likely low at the event, owners of horses potentially exposed are encouraged to take precautions. Exposed horses should be isolated and have their temperatures monitored twice daily for at least 14 days after last known exposure. If an exposed horse develops a fever or other signs consistent with EHM, diagnostic tests should be performed. Owners should work with their veterinary practitioners to establish appropriate monitoring and diagnostic plans for any potentially exposed horse(s). For more information on biosecurity measures you can take to keep your horses healthy, visit this page.Read the full article here.