Equine Herpesvirus (EHV-1) Outbreak Impacts Horses Across North america
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Last Updated: November 26, 2025
An outbreak of Equine Herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) is affecting horses in multiple states and Canadian provinces, following an event held in Waco, Texas earlier in November. The outbreak has led to illness in eleven horses and, tragically, the euthanasia of one horse in bell County, Texas due to neurological complications.
What is Equine Herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1)?
Equine Herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) is a common equine pathogen that can cause a range of illnesses in horses, from mild respiratory disease to severe neurological disease and reproductive problems. https://www.aaha.org/your-pet/pet-owner-resources/ask-aaha/equine-herpesvirus-1-ehv-1/ there are two main strains of EHV-1:
* Respiratory Strain: This is the more common form, causing fever, nasal discharge, cough, and reduced appetite.
* Neuropathic Strain: This strain affects the nervous system, leading to incoordination, weakness, bladder paralysis, and in severe cases, paralysis and euthanasia.
The current outbreak is linked to the neuropathic strain, which is particularly concerning due to its potential for severe neurological damage.
the Current Outbreak
The outbreak originated at a horse event in Waco, Texas, which drew competitors from 31 U.S. states and four Canadian provinces. Following the event, cases began to emerge, prompting a response from state veterinary officials. Bud Dinges,a veterinarian with the Texas Animal Health Commission,confirmed the outbreak and the subsequent actions taken to contain it.
“We’re seeing a strain that’s the neuropathic strain and we are seeing horses that are affected neurologically,” Dinges stated.
The Texas Animal Health Commission https://www.tahc.texas.gov/animal_health/equine/ehv/ is working to track the spread of the virus and implement control measures. Other states and Canadian provinces were notified to monitor their horse populations for potential infections.
Control Measures & What Horse Owners Should Do
To limit the spread of EHV-1, the following measures are being implemented:
* Quarantine: Horses that have tested positive for EHV-1 are under a 21-day quarantine period, during which they are closely monitored for symptoms.
* Biosecurity: Horse owners are urged to practice strict biosecurity measures, including:
* Isolating any horses showing signs of illness.
* avoiding contact between horses from different locations.
* Disinfecting equipment and facilities.
* Monitoring horses for fever and neurological signs.
* Reporting: Any suspected cases of EHV-1 should be reported promptly to a veterinarian and state animal health officials.
The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) provides complete resources on EHV-1,including biosecurity guidelines and details on recognizing symptoms: https://www.aaep.org/horse-health/equine-herpesvirus
Primary Topic: Equine Herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) Outbreak
Primary Keyword: Equine Herpesvirus (EHV-1)
Secondary Keywords: horse virus, neurological disease in horses, equine disease outbreak, horse quarantine, EHV-1 symptoms, horse health, Texas Animal Health Commission, AAEP, biosecurity for horses.