Horse owners in Texas and neighboring states are on alert after a confirmed outbreak of the highly contagious Equine Herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) Myeloencephalopathy, more chillingly known as EHM, in the Waco area. Initially identified in two horses that participated in a barrel race event earlier this month, the outbreak has spurred a precautionary notice from the Town of Davie, despite no cases having been reported within its borders.
According to the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC), seven confirmed cases of EHV-1 with neurological symptoms have emerged in Texas, with additional cases - three in Oklahoma and three in Louisiana. The virus, known to quickly spread through horse-to-horse contact, contaminated tack, and respiratory secretions, has put horse communities to strongly consider to restrict non-essential movement of their equine companions. The Town of Davie has advised limiting horses' exposure by avoiding common trails and holding off on travel for 14 to 21 days.
Symptoms to watch for in the horses include fever, nasal discharge, coughing, and more severe signs like depression, head tilt, difficulty urinating, loss of tail tone, stumbling or weakness, and even abortions in pregnant mares. Owners are urged to vigilantly monitor their animals, and take their temperatures twice daily — a practice crucial in detecting the illness within its up to 14-day incubation period. Chronicled by the Town of Davie's official advisory, these measures are part of a broader community effort to quell the outbreak.
While the Town of Davie remains EHV-1 free currently, the issued notice serves as a magnified call to horse owners to exercise extreme caution. Should any horse display symptoms suggestive of EHV-1, contacting a veterinarian promptly is imperative. For those seeking to expand their knowledge on EHV-1, resources are available at the USDA’s website, as recommended by the Town of Davie’s notification.
