Post by Sunny Acres Ranch on May 19, 2011 6:53:10 GMT -8
Heads up! A very contagious and deadly strain of EHV (Equine Herpes Virus) is making the rounds. Horses were first exposed to this virus at the Western National Cutting Show in Ogden, UT. These horses have returned to different states carrying the virus. Reports say that at least 6 horses have died already, and there are confirmed cases at WSU and Pilchuck here in WA. WSU has temporarily closed for new patients to contain any further spreading.
What is EHV-1?
EHV-1 (Equine Herpes Virus) is a neurological form that causes damage to the brain and spinal cord. There is no vaccine available for this strain. Most horses carry the inactive version of the virus, but the virus can be activated in times of severe stress or when the horse comes into contact with a currently infected individual.
What are the signs of illness?
Symptoms include fever, decreased coordination, urine dribbling, hindquarter weakness, leaning against a fence or wall to stay upright, lethargy, inability to rise. Some horses may appear to be perfectly healthy, but have a thick nasal discharge.
Is there a treatment?
EHV-1 does not respond to antibiotics. The only treatment is supportive - IV fluids and anti-inflammatory drugs.
How do I prevent this disease?
Until the imminent and current threat passes, keep your horses home. Do not bring in any new horses that you do not know where they came from and what their history has been.
If you suspect your horse may have been exposed to EHV-1:
*Put your horse on immune boosters immediately.
*Isolate your horse away from all other horses.
*Watch them closely for illness or lethargy.
*Take their temperature twice a day, and call the vet ASAP if you notice a spike in temperature.
*Do not share equipment between the suspected horse and any other horses - grooming tools, buckets, etc.
*Feed or handle the suspected horse last, so you do not carry any virus to your other horses.
*Disinfect your shoes, tools, buckets, and change and wash your hands and clothes before you handle a healthy horse. You CAN carry the virus to other animals!
Many horse shows and events are being cancelled to control this outbreak from being any more widespread than it already is. If you are planning to attend any shows or events in the next 30 days, you will need to check with the organizers.
What is EHV-1?
EHV-1 (Equine Herpes Virus) is a neurological form that causes damage to the brain and spinal cord. There is no vaccine available for this strain. Most horses carry the inactive version of the virus, but the virus can be activated in times of severe stress or when the horse comes into contact with a currently infected individual.
What are the signs of illness?
Symptoms include fever, decreased coordination, urine dribbling, hindquarter weakness, leaning against a fence or wall to stay upright, lethargy, inability to rise. Some horses may appear to be perfectly healthy, but have a thick nasal discharge.
Is there a treatment?
EHV-1 does not respond to antibiotics. The only treatment is supportive - IV fluids and anti-inflammatory drugs.
How do I prevent this disease?
Until the imminent and current threat passes, keep your horses home. Do not bring in any new horses that you do not know where they came from and what their history has been.
If you suspect your horse may have been exposed to EHV-1:
*Put your horse on immune boosters immediately.
*Isolate your horse away from all other horses.
*Watch them closely for illness or lethargy.
*Take their temperature twice a day, and call the vet ASAP if you notice a spike in temperature.
*Do not share equipment between the suspected horse and any other horses - grooming tools, buckets, etc.
*Feed or handle the suspected horse last, so you do not carry any virus to your other horses.
*Disinfect your shoes, tools, buckets, and change and wash your hands and clothes before you handle a healthy horse. You CAN carry the virus to other animals!
Many horse shows and events are being cancelled to control this outbreak from being any more widespread than it already is. If you are planning to attend any shows or events in the next 30 days, you will need to check with the organizers.
