Updated, science-backed resource outlines symptoms, transmission and steps to reduce disease spread
Horse owners wanting to learn more about equine herpesviruses, EHV, now have a new fact sheet resource developed by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service.
Equine Herpesvirus (EHV-1 and EHV-4): What Horse Owners Need to Know covers disease basics, how the virus spreads, recommended biosecurity practices to prevent spread as well as measures to report cases to the Texas Animal Health Commission.
EHV-1 can cause respiratory illness, abortion in mares and, in some cases, lead to severe neurologic condition called equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy, EHM. EHV-4 primarily causes respiratory disease and rarely leads to abortion or neurologic signs, according to experts.
The fact sheet was compiled by Chelsie Huseman, Ph.D., AgriLife Extension horse specialist and associate professor; Jennifer Zoller, AgriLife Extension horse specialist and associate professor; and Tom Hairgrove, DVM, Ph.D., AgriLife Extension veterinary specialist, all in the Department of Animal Science.
“This resource provides an overview of EHV, preventative measures and reporting guidelines,” Zoller said. “The factsheet also has resources for developing a proactive biosecurity plan, which is the most effective way to prevent outbreaks.”
Transmission and prevention of EHV
Horse-to-horse contact is the most common transmission method, according to the factsheet. Aerosolized droplets produced when an infected horse coughs or snorts as well as contaminated equipment or surfaces can lead to spread.
A new fact sheet from the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, Equine Herpesvirus (EHV-1 & EHV-4): What Horse Owners Need to Know, covers disease basics, how the virus spreads, recommended biosecurity practices to prevent spread as well as measures to report cases to the Texas Animal Health Commission. (Courtney Sacco/Texas A&M AgriLife)
“Common signs of respiratory disease include fever above 101.5 degrees, nasal discharge and coughing,” Hairgrove said.
Experts stress that isolation is essential in limiting spread when returning from events or new arrivals for at least 14 to 21 days monitoring twice daily for fever and to handle those horses last during chores. Owners should also avoid sharing of tack, grooming tools or water sources.
Sanitize and clean stalls, trailers, buckets and other items. Also, limit personnel contact with multiple horses and wear dedicated clothing, gloves and boots when handling exposed animals. Wash hands thoroughly.
“We recommend following the guidance of your veterinary professional and animal health agencies for official guidance,” Hairgrove said.
Access the EHV fact sheet
Learn more about equine herpesvirus, how it spreads and what you can do to protect your horses. The full AgriLife Extension fact sheet includes symptoms, biosecurity steps and reporting instructions for Texas horse owners.
