10/01/2020
Equine Herpes Virus (EHV-1) outbreak has been confirmed at an equestrian centre in Hampshire.
As the disease can spread easily and has the potential for serious consequences, the BHS strongly recommends that yards inform others if they have an outbreak so potential in-contact horses can be quickly isolated and monitored to help decrease the risk of spread.
If you have any concerns for your horse contact your vet immediately.
EHV-1 is contagious and can cause respiratory disease, abortion and neurological disease. The virus can be spread by direct and indirect contact such as:
• Horse to horse contact
• Nasal discharge
• Contaminated equipment or by handlers who have been in contact with infected horses
• Via aerosol droplets over short distances by coughing and snorting
Clinical signs for the respiratory disease will be similar to equine flu and include a high temperature, nasal discharge, coughing, loss of appetite and lethargy. Horses affected by the neurological disease may not able to pass urine or droppings, can display signs of poor limb coordination, and in severe cases are unable to stand. Pregnant mares can suddenly and unexpectantly miscarry their unborn foal.
Further EHV advice and the simple steps you can take to prevent disease spread is available from: https://www.bhs.org.uk/advice-and-information/horse-health-and-sickness/disease-prevention