Bastrop Rodeo Arena Closed After EHV-1 Outbreak

BASTROP,Texas – The Mayfest Park Rodeo Arena in Bastrop is closed until further notice due to an outbreak of Equine Herpesvirus Type 1 (EHV-1),a virus affecting horses. City officials announced the closure on Thursday.

The outbreak connects to the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA) World finals and elite Barrel Race held November 5-9 in the Waco area. Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller issued an alert Wednesday, advising anyone who attended, transported horses, or was near the event to take safety precautions.

“This virus spreads quickly and can be deadly,” Commissioner Miller stated. “The earliest signs are often subtle and easy to miss.”

EHV-1 can cause respiratory illness, neurological disease, and abortion in horses. Symptoms include fever, nasal discharge, coughing, incoordination, and weakness. horses can spread the virus through direct contact, airborne transmission, and contaminated equipment.

officials recommend horse owners monitor their animals for any signs of illness and contact a veterinarian instantly if they notice anything unusual. They also advise limiting horse contact, practicing strict biosecurity measures, and avoiding events where horses congregate. More information about EHV-1 and biosecurity practices is available from the Texas Animal Health Commission and the American Association of Equine practitioners.