‘Highly contagious’ equine herpesvirus found in Idaho horse, authorities say
Authorities on Friday said they’ve confirmed one report of a horse in Ada County carrying a highly contagious virus, according to an Idaho State Department of Agriculture news release.
The animal was diagnosed with equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy, specifically the EHV-1 strain of the virus. According to the ISDA, EHV-1 is fairly common, though some horses can develop a less-common neuropathogenic strain which can lead to respiratory disease, neurologic disease and abortions.
ISDA said in the news release that the horse is under quarantine at a private facility.
“The horse tested positive for the non-neuropathogenic strain of EHV-1, but still presented with neurologic symptoms,” the release said.
The animal reportedly traveled from Arizona to Idaho in February. It was then transported to a barrel racing event in South Jordan, Utah, from March 15 to 17 before returning to Ada County.
Recently, several horses were quarantined in Nevada after an outbreak of equine herpesvirus following a state high school rodeo. on March 21, Utah’s state veterinarian urged horse owners to limit travel due to the Nevada outbreak.
The virus is highly contagious and can easily be transmitted between horses via nasal discharge, one of the symptoms of the disease. It also spreads through aerosol droplets and through contaminated surfaces, such as food and water, tack, stalls, horse trailers and even humans.
To prevent the spread of the virus, the Equine Disease Communication Center recommends disinfecting all surfaces and equipment, including hands and clothing. The virus incubates for 2 to 10 days, but it can live on surfaces for up to a month in ideal conditions.
Horses can be vaccinated against some strains of EHV-1, but there is currently no vaccine for the neurologic associated with the virus, ISDA said.
Infected animals can develop discharge from the eyes and nose, enlarged lymph nodes, fever greater than 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit, lethagy, and neurologic symptoms such as muscle weakness and loss of balance.
Anyone who suspects their animal may have the disease should call 208-332-8560 to report the case to the Idaho State Veterinarian.
The ISDA and State Veterinarian Bill Barton said it’s up to the hosts of equine events to decide whether or not to cancel the gatherings. Anyone attending an equine competition or event is urged to take safety measures to avoid to the spread of the disease.
“Horses that may have been exposed to EHV often take several days to demonstrate clinical illness and run the risk of shedding the virus undetected. Exposed horses that travel to shows or exhibitions could expose other horses before disease containment can be implemented,” ISDA said in the release.