Equine health officials stateside have reported cases of equine herpes virus and equine strangles in Pennsylvania and Florida.
On Wednesday (March 3) the University of Pennsylvania’s large animal hospital, New Bolton Center in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania diagnosed a patient admitted with neurologic signs as having Equine Herpes Myeloencephalopathy (EHV-1). the affected horse was euthanized.
The limited number of potentially exposed horses have been identified and are being contacted by New Bolton Center and the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. Due to the limited nature of the potential exposure, New Bolton Center’s clinical hospital operations have not been affected. This case has no known association with international travel, transport, or exhibition. New Bolton Center is working closely with the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, and will provide additional updates as they become available.
An eight-year-old warmblood horse with neurological signs was reported by a private veterinary practitioner in Marion County, Fl. on March 1, 2021. The horse subsequently tested positive for the Equine Herpes Virus (EHV-1), neurotrophic strain. As of March 3, 2021, the affected horse continues to be treated in a separate isolation facility. No additional EHV-1 cases have been detected. The Division of Animal Industry placed the premises under quarantine and immediately began a disease investigation. Additional movement requirements or restrictions have not been imposed by Florida or any other states at this time. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is advising horse owners and trainers to contact the venue of destination for any additional requirements prior to travel. However, in light of the recent EHV-1 outbreak in Europe, all facilities are encouraged to isolate horses importing into Florida from the affected regions in Europe and enact strict biosecurity measures to include monitoring the horse’s health and taking temperatures twice per day for at least 14 days.
The Dept. of Agriculture is asking all those in the equine community to practice prudent biosecurity on their farm and to report any suspected cases of EHV-1. For reporting, call (850) 410-0900 Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and 1-800-342-5869 after hours and weekends or email [email protected]. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services will continue to work with the affected premises management, owners, and veterinarians to ensure proper safeguards are taken to prevent further spread of the disease.
A seven-year-old quarter horse located at a private facility tested positive for equine strangles earlier this week. This case is the 10th confirmed case of Strangles for Florida in 2021.
Resources For Horsepeople:
► OMAFRA - Preventing Disease Spread - Personal Hygiene and Disinfectants around Horse Barns
► OMAFRA - Horses - Health Management and Biosecurity
► CFIA - National Farm and Facility Level Biosecurity Standard for the Equine Sector