Howard County Horse Tests Positive for Equine Herpes Virus

ANNAPOLIS, MD –  A horse stabled in Howard County tested positive for the non-neuropathic form of Equine Herpes Virus (EHV-1). The horse showed neurological signs and as a result was euthanized by a private veterinarian. Diagnosis was confirmed on April 18 by the Maryland Department of Agriculture Frederick Animal Health Laboratory.

The farm is presently under a 30-day investigational hold and strict biosecurity measures are in place while Department of Agriculture inspectors perform additional epidemiological and infectious disease testing. Stables near the one where the sick horse resided are being notified of the situation and owners are cautioned to monitor horses at their premises carefully.

The Department of Agriculture’s Animal Health Program is monitoring the situation closely. Owners should contact their private veterinarians to arrange for Equine Herpes Virus testing if a horse exhibits significant temperature elevations or neurologic signs. Veterinarians are required to report equine neurologic syndrome to the department.

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Updated 4/21/16

Click here for the press release announcing a Second Horse Tests Positive for Equine Herpes Virus