Overview:
Equine Herpesvirus Type 1 (EHV-1) is driving a growing multi-state outbreak following a major equestrian event in Texas. While many horses experience only respiratory illness, some develop the dangerous neurologic form known as EHM. This article explains current hotspots, symptoms to watch for, and the latest guidance for horse owners.
Horses EHV-1: What is the Virus — and When Does It Turn Dangerous? Equestrian Chatter
What Is EHV-1 — and Why This Strain Is Concerning
EHV-1 is a common equine virus that typically causes fever and respiratory issues. However, certain strains can trigger Equine Herpesvirus Myeloencephalopathy (EHM) — a severe neurologic condition caused by inflammation and clotting in the brain and spinal cord.
Symptoms include:
- Fever
- Nasal discharge or cough
- Hindlimb weakness or incoordination
- Swelling
- Difficulty rising
- Seizures
- Loss of tail tone
- Urine dribbling or incontinence
Approximately 60–70% of affected horses recover with prompt treatment and isolation.
Current Hotspots — Where the Virus Is Active
The 2025 outbreak originated from a major competition in Waco, Texas, and has since spread across multiple states. Recent updates indicate:
- Significant clusters across Texas, including at least eight counties
- Confirmed cases linked to the outbreak in Oklahoma, Louisiana, Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, Washington, and South Dakota
- Event closures and cancellations in Texas due to active shedding
- No confirmed linked cases in Florida yet — but veterinarians urge heightened vigilance
Due to widespread travel after the event, additional cases are expected.
What Equestrians Should Do Right Now
1. Temperature Check Twice Daily
Fever is the earliest warning sign. Any temperature over 101.5°F warrants immediate isolation.
2. Enforce Strict Quarantine
Horses that attended the Waco event — or interacted with exposed horses — should be quarantined for a minimum of 14 days.
3. Strengthen Biosecurity
Avoid sharing tack, buckets, stalls, trailers, wash racks, and grooming tools. Disinfect frequently.
4. Monitor for Neurologic Symptoms
Any stumbling, hind-end weakness, difficulty rising, or urinary issues should be treated as an emergency.
5. Review Vaccination Protocols
Vaccines reduce respiratory disease severity but do not guarantee protection against the neurologic form.
Why the Outbreak Spread Quickly
Large equestrian gatherings create high-risk conditions: shared spaces, close stall proximity, communal items, travel stress, and pre-symptomatic viral shedding. These factors allowed EHV-1 to move rapidly across states.
Florida and Other States: Stay Alert
Although Florida has no confirmed linked cases, state extension services advise:
- Limiting interstate travel
- Avoiding unnecessary competitions
- Keeping equipment barn-specific
- Closely monitoring horses returning from events
Florida remains a major equine hub, so vigilance is essential.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 EHV-1 outbreak is one of the most significant in years, affecting horses across multiple states. With neurologic cases posing severe risks, early detection, isolation, and strong biosecurity remain the best tools for protecting equine health.
Presence News will continue monitoring EDCC and state veterinary alerts as updates develop. If any developments heard about feel free to email us via meet the team page thanks. – Happy Thanksgiving
Sources:
- EDCC – Equine Disease Communication Center:
https://www.equinediseasecc.org - University of Florida Large Animal Hospital:
https://largeanimal.vethospitals.ufl.edu - U.S. Horse Council Outbreak Briefings:
https://horsecouncil.org - Florida IFAS Extension – Equine Updates:
https://nwdistrict.ifas.ufl.edu - Horse Nation – Biosecurity Guidance:
https://horsenation.com - Houston Chronicle – Local Outbreak Reporting:
https://www.houstonchronicle.com - MySanAntonio – Texas EHV-1 Coverage:
https://www.mysanantonio.com
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