The Maritime Provinces Harness Racing Commission (MPHRC) advises industry participants and racetrack operators that it continues to actively monitor developments in the United States and Canada regarding the spread of Equine Herpes Virus Type 1 (EHV-1), including cases involving neurologic manifestations associated with Equine Herpes Myeloencephalopathy (EHM) across multiple breeds and disciplines.
Recent reports from U.S. regulatory and equine sport authorities have identified clusters of EHV-1 cases linked to large mixed equine events, reinforcing the ongoing risk posed by highly contagious equine diseases and the importance of strict biosecurity measures.
At this time, the MPHRC is not aware of any confirmed cases of EHV-1 or EHM linked to horses racing or stabled within the Maritime Provinces. Most reported cases continue to be concentrated in the Southern United States, with additional identified risk areas in specific jurisdictions as outlined below. Racing operations and sanctioned events may continue as scheduled, subject to enhanced biosecurity expectations and vigilance by all participants.
The MPHRC is closely monitoring updates published by the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC), which provides current information, case tracking, and impact statistics relating to equine disease outbreaks across North America. Further advisories will be issued as warranted.
Quarantine Requirements for Incoming Horses from Identified Risk Areas
Any horse entering the Maritime Provinces from the following U.S. states or from Alberta must undergo mandatory quarantine and veterinary inspection prior to access to any racetrack or training facility:
- Texas
- Oklahoma
- Louisiana
- South Dakota
- Colorado
- New Mexico
- Arizona
- Washington
- Alberta
These horses must:
- Undergo mandatory quarantine upon arrival for a period to be determined by a licensed veterinarian based on risk assessment;
- Receive a veterinary inspection and written health clearance prior to any entry into racetrack grounds, training centres, or race meet participation;
- Be closely monitored for clinical signs consistent with EHV infection during and following the quarantine period.
Quarantine requirements may be expanded or modified as new information becomes available.
Reporting Obligations
Trainers, owners, veterinarians, and racetrack operators must immediately report to the MPHRC any horse exhibiting signs suggestive of EHV-1 or EHM, including but not limited to:
- Fever (greater than 38.6°C / 101.5°F)
- Nasal discharge
- Cough
- Lethargy
- Loss of coordination or hind-end weakness
- Difficulty standing or walking
Reports should be made without delay to the MPHRC and the attending veterinarian.
Recommended Biosecurity Measures
The MPHRC strongly reinforces the following preventative practices across all Maritime racetracks and training facilities:
- Twice-daily temperature monitoring and recording of all horses
- Immediate isolation of any horse exhibiting fever or clinical signs of illness
- Avoid sharing water buckets, bridles and harnesses, grooming tools, or equipment unless properly cleaned and disinfected
- Limit direct horse-to-horse contact and maintain physical separation whenever possible
- Restrict handling of horses to essential personnel only
- Thorough cleaning and disinfection of trailers between loads, particularly following transport of ill or higher-risk horses
- Consideration of EHV-1 vaccination in consultation with a licensed veterinarian as part of an overall biosecurity and disease prevention strategy
Industry Awareness and Responsibility
This situation highlights the value of industry-wide cooperation in managing disease risks tied to horse movement and large equine events. By communicating early, following biosecurity guidelines, and promptly reporting concerns, we can collectively safeguard equine health and help ensure uninterrupted racing operations.
The MPHRC will continue to monitor developments closely and share updates as needed.
For questions or to report concerns, the MPHRC can be contacted at [email protected] or 902-836-5500
(MPHRC; horse pictured does not have EHV-1)