A reminder to participants to use caution and take appropriate steps With reference to Equine Guelph’s report of a case of Equine Herpes Virus 1 in a horse in Ontario, the Ontario Racing Commission (ORC) has determined that this case does not involve a racehorse.
However, due to the infectious nature of this virus, the ORC urges participants to take appropriate steps when such cases are reported. Outbreaks of eurological EHV-1 are contagious and have a significant risk of mortality. ANYTHING that touches an infected horse or carries secretions or manure from sick horses has the potential to transfer pathogens to other horses.
ORC Manager of Veterinary Services Dr. Adam Chambers believes this case will likely not impact racing in Ontario but he reminds participants to use caution and take appropriate biosecurity measures. For example, racetrack management need to maintain aggressive disinfectant programs in ship-in barn areas. Further, as a standard practice, trainers should continue checking their horse’s temperature prior to shipping into an Ontario racetrack.
The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food (OMAF) tracks cases of Equine Neurological Disease in Ontario. Racing participants are encouraged to regularly check the OMAF website.
The ORC is closely monitoring the situation and any further developments will be reported. For more information – or to speak with Dr. Duncan or Dr. Chambers - please call: 1-855-261-6821.
(ORC)
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