Two Positive Cases of Highly Contagious Disease, Trigger Quarantine of 80 Horses in Prominent Equestrian Facility

Equestrian events remain a popular recreation for many, despite the risks and challenges it presents. The sport is fraught with perils, from horse-rider compatibility concerns to fatal accidents, that frequently make the news. The activity sure tight grips its fanatics’ hearts as multiple recovery and success stories emerge despite major setbacks. While the rider’s news often makes it to the news, this time an update from a horse facility has caught some serious attention.

Two horses fell unwell, which unfortunately revealed a significant health concern. Unaware of its scale, an alarming sickness spread amongst over 100 horses in the stable. To protect the horses, the state veterinarian’s office swiftly acted initiating a plan of action.

Equestrian nightmare companion on the verge of health risks

Two horses at the Virginia Horse Centre in Lexington tested positive for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). The disease came to light when the horses began to exhibit symptoms during the Shenandoah Classic, a USEF-approved event. When the horses first started showing neurologic signs, they were taken from the Virginia Horse Centre and promptly removed from the property and put in isolation. One horse is receiving care and has stabilized, as for the second horse, the horrifying accident leads to the horse being euthanized.

Post-inspection of the barn, the Virginia State Veterinarian’s Office ordered the activation of the VHC biosecurity and disease response plan. An update from the USEF was released confirming the continuation of competition with enhanced biosecurity measures and monitoring of horse health. USEF will monitor the situation by twice-daily temperature recording and checking signs of illness.

In a report released by US Equestrian, Dr. Katie Flynn, the USEF Equine Health and Biosecurity Veterinarian said, “I applaud the VHC staff, the show veterinarians, competition management, and show participants for their prompt response and collaborative efforts to immediately implement biosecurity measures to protect the health of all equines on the premises.” Additional steps are being made to protect the stable’s horses that were exposed to the diseased pair.

The authorities’ prompt response to safeguard the stable

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has partnered with the Virginia Horse Centre to monitor the situation and prevent the virus from spreading. The State Veterinarian’s Office took major steps in safeguarding approximately 80 horses from the Virginia barn. The precautions included quarantining, barring from competition, and even isolating the contagious horses.

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All exposed horses at the VHC are routinely checked twice a day for clinical signs and fever if the temperature exceeds 101.50° F. Everyone involved in equestrian sports must be aware of the recent happening and how the staff and state authorities handled it delicately. While the circumstance also emphasizes the necessity for suitable safety precautions to protect both riders and their horses.

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