State Vet Reports Serious Horse Virus Found In Virginia

The Tennessee State Veterinarian is advising horse owners in Tennessee that cases of Equine Herpes Virus One have been reported in neighboring Virginia. Last week, two horses at a horse show in Lexington, Virginia tested positive for EHV-1. EHV in all forms is highly infectious and found worldwide. EHV-1 can cause upper respiratory disease, neurological disease, abortions, and neonatal death. While there is no way to eliminate all risks of disease when co-mingling horses, vaccinations and good biosecurity measures reduce the risk on the farm and while at competitions. The state veterinarian says it’s best to not share buckets, brushes, halters, bridles, bits, or other equipment. You should contact your veterinarian if you notice any signs of illness in your animals. You can follow the Equine Disease Communication Center for current disease outbreaks at equinediseasecc.org/alerts.