On Wednesday, June 19, the Ontario Racing Commission issued an update regarding the backstretch barn quarantine at Woodbine Racetrack relating to the recent EHV-1 situation.

The contents of the ORC release, which was sent on behalf of Dr. Adam Chambers, appear below.

EHV-1 Update: Restrictions on Woodbine Barn 3 lifted. Horses except Barn 1 allowed to exit

ORC Manager of Veterinary Services Dr. Adam Chambers announced that the restrictions on horses stabled in Woodbine’s Barn 3 are lifted. In addition, horses NOT stabled in Barn 1 are now allowed to exit Woodbine.

There have been two negative tests for EHV-1 for all horses in Barn 3 and as a result these horses may now train during normal training hours and race. While no horse in Barn 3 had at any time tested positive for EHV-1, the restrictions were initiated as a pony with direct contact with horses in Barn 1 was stabled in Barn 3.

The three horses from Barn 1 that had tested positive for EHV-1 are not allowed to leave their barn. All other Barn 1 horses will be allowed to train on the training track after the track closes to training for all other horses. If there is a second negative test for EHV-1 for all of the horses in Barn 1, their restrictions on racing and training will be lifted on June 26, 2013.

After two negative tests for EHV-1 are received, the horses that had been stabled in isolation due to preliminary concerns will be allowed back to their respective barns.

The ORC will continue to closely monitor the situation and any further developments will be reported.

For more information, or to speak with Dr. Duncan or Dr. Chambers, please call 416-213-0520.