Two horses in Louisa County, Virginia, have recently been diagnosed with equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). The first horse exhibited neurological symptoms, became recumbent, and unfortunately had to be euthanized. Another horse on the same property has tested positive for EHV-1, showing a fever but no neurological signs at this time.
EDCC Health Watch is a program by the Equine Network that uses information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and share verified reports on equine diseases. The EDCC is a nonprofit organization supported by industry donations to provide accessible information on infectious diseases.
Understanding EHV-1
Equine herpesvirus (EHV) is highly contagious among horses and can lead to various conditions such as respiratory issues, abortion in pregnant mares, and equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM).
EHV-1 infection in horses often presents with fever as the primary symptom, which can easily go unnoticed. Other common signs in young horses include coughing, reduced appetite, lethargy, and nasal discharge. Pregnant mares may not show any signs before experiencing late-term abortions, typically around eight months into gestation. Abortions can occur within weeks to months following EHV-1 infection.
Horses with EHM initially exhibit fever and respiratory signs, followed by neurologic symptoms like incoordination, limb weakness or paralysis, urinary issues, tail muscle tone loss, and recumbency.
The virus spreads through close contact with infected horses, contaminated equipment, or items that have been in contact with infected individuals. Practicing biosecurity measures such as hygiene and disinfection protocols can help prevent disease transmission.
While current EHV-1 vaccines may reduce viral shedding, they do not offer protection against the neurologic form of the disease. Prioritizing biosecurity practices is crucial for minimizing viral spread, with disease prevention being the most effective control strategy.