Hoosier Park Racing and Casino received confirmation today that the two horses previously exhibiting signs of Streptococcus equi (equine strangles), have been confirmed positive.

Both horses have been removed from the backstretch at Hoosier Park Racing and Casino and have been isolated per recommendation from the Indiana State Board of Animal Health.

The remaining 57 horses stabled in one of the track’s 16 barns will remain quarantined until appropriate testing and time lines approved by the Board of Animal Health have been completed. No other horses in the quarantined barn at Hoosier Park have shown clinical signs of the infection at this time.

All other horses stabled on the backstretch are not under quarantine. The backstretch, which consists of 1,032 stalls, is fully operational and no disruption to business has been experienced.

Stringent biosecurity procedures have been implemented by Hoosier Park officials, who continue to keep in constant contact with state and track veterinarians monitoring the incident.

Some of the biosecurity procedures in place include the disinfection of the paddock and saddling area following each race, all starting gate assistants are wearing disposable gloves, which are changed out after each start, the starting gate is completely disinfected following each start, and all pony riders and outriders are cleaning and sanitizing all areas of their tack and pony horses where contact has been made with each horse at the conclusion of each race. An entire list of biosecurity procedures is available through the public relations department upon request.

Hoosier Park Racing and Casino resumed the regular live racing schedule Wednesday, September 16. Racing is held Wednesday through Sunday with a first post of 4:45 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday. Racing begins Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 12:45 p.m. The 2009 thoroughbred meet runs through Saturday, October 24.

(Hoosier Park)

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