Click Here to Order Online!
The New Mexico Livestock Board, Office of the State Veterinarian has posted an update on the EHV-1 outbreak on 5-25-2011. Most local horse shows have been cancelled including the NM Dressage Association Show and the Sandia Classic.
Follow us on Facebook (Meddleton Equine) for continued updates and announcements.
May 25, 2011
To: NM Equine Veterinarians, Equine Owners and Equine Event Coordinators
From: Dave E. Fly, DVM, State Veterinarian
Equine Herpes Virus 1 UpdateEquine Herpes Virus 1 (EHV-1) is a viral disease of horses, mules and donkeys. There have been occasional reports of EHV-1 occurring in llamas and alpacas. Normally, the disease causes respiratory disease, commonly known as rhinopneumonitis. EHV-4 may cause abortions in pregnant mares.
Currently, the western United States is experiencing an outbreak of a mutagenic strain of EHV-1 that may lead to severe neurological disease and death. There are not any vaccines labeled for this strain of EHV. The current outbreak initiated in early May, 2011 at a major horse event in Utah. Horses attending this event have carried the disease to several western states.
Presently in New Mexico, three premises are under quarantine as a result of active cases of EHV-1.
All three premises have had cases of the neurological form of EHV-1, also known as Equine Herpes Myeloencephalopathy (EHM).
One horse has died, two horses are clinically ill and one horse has recovered. The last case in New Mexico was reported on May 20, 2011. All other horses on these quarantined premises are under close observation and are being monitored by their farm veterinarians.
Currently, all cases of EHV-1 diagnosed across the western United States have been associated with the horse event in Utah. All known exposed horses are under observation and restricted movement.
There has not been any evidence to suggest that any exposure has occurred in race horses.
It appears that the outbreak is under control; however due to additional exposures either at other events or horses that were exposed, but have not been identified, it has been determined that an additional 7 – 10 days is needed before normal equine movement can resume.
It is recommended that major or large equine events not be conducted for the next 10 days.
A national EHV situation report will be updated by USDA on May 26, 2011. The New Mexico Livestock Board will evaluate events and take appropriate action on or around June 1, 2011.
Enjoy this article?
If you enjoyed this article, please take a second to share it via the various social bookmarking sites in the "Share This" link to the right. Don't forget to subscribe to our RSS Feed . Thanks again for visiting us!
Reader Comments
0